A devastating Thursday evening fire wreaked havoc on the rural Letcher farmhouse of Fred and Kathy Zoss leaving a total loss to the family of four.
They believe the fire started in the area of the Zoss’ clothes dryer, according to Letcher Fire Chief Rod Clarambeau.
One of Zoss’ sons smelled smoke around 8 p.m. and when Fred walked out of the house to investigate he saw an orange glow coming from the home. He ran back inside, grabbed a few keepsakes and yelled for everyone to get out.
The power in the house went out before the family could escape, so they maneuvered their way in the dark, ultimately breaking a window and climbing out.
No one was injured in the fire, except a cut on Fred’s hand from breaking the window to escape.
Fred and Kathy lived with their two sons, Andrew and Dalen, at their home on 239th Street east of Letcher and about 2-1/2 miles east of Highway 37. They are currently staying with relatives.
Firefighters from Letcher, Artesian and Upland Colony responded to the fire, which was a total loss upon arrival.
A benefit fund for the family has been set up at First National Bank, SD, Mitchell.