AIKEN, S.C. () – In a devastating turn of events just days before Christmas, William “Pat” Hayes finds himself grappling with the loss of his cherished home of 41 years.

Compounding a series of recent challenges, Hayes expresses an urgent need for assistance now more than ever.

“Every room in the house was consumed by flames,” Hayes lamented. “All 11 rooms are now nothing but charred remains.”

The tragic blaze erupted last Tuesday night on Foreman-Floyd Road, located in the Petticoat Junction area.

Having spent his childhood in that very home, Hayes inherited it from his mother, who passed away two years ago.

Since then, his friends say it’s been a rocky road. 

“He’s going through a whole lot. He just came through a giant car accident with an 18-wheeler, so he’s still healing from that. He lost his mom, now he’s lost his house,” said Liz Cowart.

That car accident last December forced Hayes to learn how to walk again—he’s now living out of his car since the house fire.

While Hayes is devastated, part of his frustration is with the Silver Bluff Volunteer Fire Department, which is right across the street from the house. 

“They need to be reevaluated or something, because they can’t serve anyone else in this community if they can’t put out the fire at the closest residence in their view,” Hayes said. “I’m the closest residence to them. If they can’t help me, who else are they going to help?”

We reached out the volunteer fire department, and received a statement from Captain Bruce Turner.

Turner released the following:

“It’s very unfortunate for any person to experience such a tragedy like a house fire, especially during the holidays. During tragedies such as this one Mr. Hayes experienced, we as a community have to step in and be there during his time of need. Prayer and sticking together will always be the key to keep a community thriving, so that’s what we will continue to do.”

They’re also urging homeowners to take extra precautions, as house fires are more common during the holidays.

Here are a few safety tips the fire department wants you to keep in mind:

• Avoid overloading outlets with multiple heat sources and/or appliances
• Burn only approved fire wood
• Never leave candles burning unattended
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home
• Test those same alarms monthly and replace batteries regularly

Cowart and friends of Hayes are now urging the community to come alongside Hayes during this troubling time.

“Anything will help. Anything. It doesn’t matter what it is, he needs help,” she said.

“My grandmother stayed here, my grandfather stayed here, my mom stayed here—they’re all gone, and the memories are gone with them,” Hayes said.

The fire department says they are still investigating how the fire started.  

As for Hayes, his friends have just set up a GoFundMe and are urging the community to contribute.

To get involved, you can find the link here.