Fair Haven Fire Survivors Aided By GoFundMe Campaign

FAIR HAVEN, N.J.—An intense fire yesterday destroyed a house on Fair Haven Road, but help is on the way from the community for the mother and daughter who lived there.

A Facebook post says that a GoFundMe site for the family has been created by Madeline Supple, organizer, of the Belford section of Middletown:

"In the blink of an eye everything changed for Ann and Emily Richards," the post says.

"Fortunately they made it out safe with their two dogs, however young Emily lost her pet gerbil and bunny. One of the worst losses was everything from Emily's younger sister, Ann's second daughter, Molly, whom we tragically lost a few years ago at a young age. Drawings, clothes and even her urn.

"Please keep the Richards in your prayers. Any amount donated is appreciated as they fight to get back on their feet in this trying time."

Access the link here.

Meanwhile, more information on the fire should be forthcoming as the police investigation progresses.

Calls came in for mutual aid to the Fair Haven Fire Department from Monmouth County fire marshals around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. On arrival, the home was totally involved. Despite strong winds, a good effort by all companies seemed to save the the two homes next door, according to a post by Scott D. Longfield, who happened to be passing by but is also a member of the Red Bank Fire Department.

"I was in my flip-flops so I couldn't help," he said. But the professional photographer did get photos. He said the fire was one of the worst he's seen in 30 years: "The smoke was so thick, I couldn't see," he said.

He said many fire departments responded, including from Fair Haven, Red Bank, Little Silver, Rumson, Sea Bright and Tinton Falls. He said two new Red Bank Engines 93 and 96 were able to douse large amounts of water on the blaze.