Fire Destroys Home, Fundraiser Launched For Scotch Plains Family

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — A fundraiser has been launched for a Scotch Plains family after a fire destroyed their home.

"For Kevin & I, Saturday, June 21st, 2025 is a day we will never forget," wrote Lana McConnell, who set up the GoFundMe fundraiser. "We were 40 miles from our home in Scotch Plains and enjoying ourselves at the Budd Lake Swedish Midsommar Festival when Kevin’s phone rang at approximately 12:30 p.m. All I could hear on the other end of the line was 'Your house is currently on fire.' Neither Kevin or I knew how to react to such sudden news. All we could think was 'Where are the cats?!'"

At 12:24 p.m., the Scotch Plains Police responded to 2069 Portland Ave. for a reported smoke condition of smoke coming from the windows. Read More: Fire Significantly Damages Scotch Plains Home Over Weekend

Officers arrived to see flames coming from the first floor, said Scotch Plains Sgt. Andrew Gitto.

Scotch Plains and Fanwood Fire Departments extinguished the fire on the first floor of the home.

Luckily, all three cats survived the fire, but the house itself is a total loss.

"While the fire only burned for about 10 to 20 minutes, that was all it took. Our clothes, furniture, appliances, as well as some precious family heirlooms were all destroyed. As luck would have it, most of Kevin’s office survived, but that’s it, everything else is gone," according to the GoFundMe.

The McConnells are currently staying with family as they work with their insurance company to set up temporary housing.

"In the mean time, we reluctantly set up this page for assistance. Regardless of whether you’re able to contribute financially, physically, or emotionally, we are forever grateful. While the situation itself is tragic, we remain optimistic thanks to the kindness, care, and compassion shown by our community of neighbors, friends, and loved ones. Words cannot express how grateful we are in knowing we are not alone during this difficult time," according to the fundraiser.

The McConnells said they intend to use these funds to help them rebuild, and to replace some of the things that they have lost.

For more information or to donate visit, gofundme.com/f/support-lana-kevins-recovery-from-fire-loss.

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