'Santa Scott' Support Pours In From Lower Bucks Co. After House Fire

FAIRLESS HILLS, PA — The home of the man known in Lower Bucks County as "Santa Scott" burned down over the weekend, fire officials said, and now the community is rallying around his family as the holiday season approaches.

The Falls Township Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire at a home on Auburn Road in Fairless Hills at 9:45 p.m. Saturday.

The Fairless Hills Fire Department found a home engulfed in flames. While the residents were not home, two dogs and a bird perished in the fire, authorities said.

There were no injuries to firefighters. Fire officials believe that the blaze started in the attic.

The Red Cross was on the scene to provide support and assistance for the family.

"Santa Scott" Diethorne has portrayed Santa Claus since 1993, appearing over the years at the Oxford Valley Mall, Charlann Farms, and local pet stores, where he poses with pets and children during the Christmas holiday season.

A GoFundMe page was launched immediately following the fire by "Santa" Scott Diethorne's brother Chris to help the family recover. So far, the GoFundMe page has raised over $100,000 of its $130,000 goal.

"Since “scammers” are trying to capitalize on my brother’s tragic accident by setting up phony GoFundMe accounts, I have decided to make one that’s legit. I assure you that every penny received will go to Scott and his family," Chris Diethorne said on the GoFundMe page.

The community outpouring of support for "Santa Scott" was shared by many on social media over the weekend.

"Santa Scott, known for his hard work in bringing joy to the community, lost his home and beloved pets. Please keep his family in your thoughts," The Trevose Fire Company Alumni Page posted on Facebook.

"Santa Scott is a local icon who spends the entire holiday season dedicated to the kids all around Bucks County. He’s the only Santa we take (our son" to and we frequently see him at local community events," one Facebook poster said.

"We are saddened to hear about Santa Scott's house. Not only did he lose his house, all of his belongings (including his custom suits), he also lost his pets," Mama Russo's Pizzeria said. "We are in the process of putting together a fundraiser to help Santa Scott and his family."

"So devastated to hear about Santa Scott house fire right as the holidays are approaching," another Facebook poster shared. "He’s the only Santa I take my children to see. He’s absolutely wonderful and a staple of this community. Please donate whatever you can for the man who’s always there for our children."

(Falls Township Fire Marshal)