In the early morning hours of March 23, the Bridges family lost their East Main Street home to a house fire.
The occupants of the home, Dional Bridges, his wife and daughter were able to escape, but the house was a total loss, according to reports from the Watonga Fire Department.
According to the report, the house was fully involved when the Watonga Fire Department arrived, with flames and smoke showing. Both Hitchcock and Greenfield fire departments gave mutual aid to Watonga at the fire.
In addition to the home and contents, the family lost several pets as well. The dwelling was a generational home, coming to Bridges from his mother, and those ties are irreplaceable.
But, in the interim, they have gained housing through the Watonga Housing Authority, and with donations were able to furnish it with beds and a couch.
However, the family is still struggling to replace their belongings such as clothing, shoes and household appliances and needs.
An account has been set up at Bank7 and anyone who wants to donate can do so by simply dropping off their donation, designating it as being for the Bridges family. For more information or to ask questions, contact Rita Wilson at the bank.
Sources close to the investigation said that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the fire.
Tavion Dashawn Murphy was taken into custody April 3 and is facing charges of endangering human life during an arson; obscene, threatening or harassing phone call; and threatening to perform acts of violence.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.