Trucks continue hauling hurricane relief from Calcutta after one trailer catches fire
One of the trailers in a caravan bringing needed goods to victims of Hurricane Helene caught fire on its way to storm-ravaged North Carolina.
However, Calcutta Fire Department Captain Scott Smith tells 21 News that the fire-damaged trailer contained just a portion of the relief being sent to victims of the hurricane.
Captain Smith says that because of damage to cell phone service caused by the storm, he only has spotty information about the incident that he believes happened between Columbus and Wheeling.
A fire department in the area recorded a video of the fire's aftermath:
Smith says the damage was confined to the inside of one trailer, and the others continued en route because the donated goods were so needed.
Meanwhile, the collection effort continues as Smith says a tractor-trailer will bring the next load of donations from Columbiana County to the Carolinas.
In a matter of hours on Monday, the department received an outpouring of donations, filling the fire station at 15445 Pugh Rd, including food, water, clothing, and hygiene products.
"We are incredibly grateful for the community's response. It's truly amazing to see how everyone has come together to help those in need,” according to the social media post.
The fire department is urging residents to continue donating items such as:
- Cases of water
- Baby formula and diapers
- Clothing for all ages
- Feminine products
- Non-perishable boxed food
- Dog food and beds
- Kids' school supplies
Monetary donations can be made to the Calcutta Volunteer Fire Department with the memo section specifying "search and rescue" or "fuel costs." Checks can be mailed to 15445 Pugh Rd., Calcutta, Ohio 43920.
The fire department will accept donations at the Calcutta Volunteer Fire Dept on Pugh Rd. from Wednesday to Friday, 4-8 p.m. A semi-truck trailer will be parked outside to collect supplies.
