News Details (Posted: July 31, 2008):

Two Clarion County families left homeless by fires

Full Description:

The fires leveled homes in Callensburg and Shippenville.

A donation drive is under way for a Callensburg area family whose home was destroyed by fire last week.

No one was home at the time of the blaze at about 9:50 p.m. Thursday night at the home of Tim Radaker and Jody Jack, according to sources.

They lived at the residence with their 18-year-old son, Tyler, who graduated from Keystone High School.

A Callensburg fire company representative couldn't be reached for comment.

The blaze was reportedly accidental in nature, and the home was insured.

Michel Vasiladiotis, marketing coordinator for Farmers National Bank in Emlenton, said they are accepting donations for the family at the Knox branch.

Clothing and other miscellaneous items are being collected at the office as well as monetary donations.

"We're getting a good response from the community," she said.

The American Red Cross has also been assisting the family.

SHIPPENVILLE FIRE

A Shippenville area family is also working to regain their independence after a blaze destroyed their mobile home at Soapfat Road at about 12:05 a.m. Thursday.

Sources said Monday the family of Michael and Shelly Best is doing well.

That fire was reportedly accidental in nature, damaging an estimated 80 percent of the family's belongings.

The couple also have two young children.

They are staying with friends and relatives and have also received assistance through the Red Cross.

There were no injuries reported in that blaze.

Credit: The Derrick