Flames engulf Moran home

A devastating house fire broke out shortly after midnight in Moran on August 4, leaving a local family with nothing. The home, occupied by a family of six, was declared a total loss after the flames burned intensely for several hours. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

City of Moran Fire Chief Tyler George said the fire appeared to start at the back of the home, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Firefighters from across Shackelford County responded to the call, including units from the Moran Rural Fire Department, the City of Albany Volunteer Fire department, and  the Shackelford County Volunteer Fire Department.

“We had two fire engines, a tanker truck, several brush trucks, and we put well over 50,000 gallons of water on it,” George said. “I know that because we drained the water tower.”

Crews battled the blaze for approximately four hours, with Albany units returning to station around 4 a.m. Even after the main fire was out, the home continued to smolder through the early morning hours.

“Everybody got out safely, but the house is a complete loss,” George said. “They’re going to be pretty much needing everything.”

The family’s immediate needs have prompted community members to begin organizing relief efforts. A benefit account has been set up at First Financial Bank in Moran under the name of the Dean Schoolcraft family, where donations can be made to help provide clothing, supplies, and other essentials for the displaced family.

As with all major fires of unknown origin, a state fire investigator is being brought in to determine the cause. George said this is standard procedure and ensures a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the incident. The results of the investigation will be reported at a later time once they become available.