A community is coming together to support a local family following a devastating house fire that claimed the life of a father and left his son fighting for his life.
The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, Jan. 4. A home in Saanichton was “fully engulfed in flames” and lost almost instantly. The fire claimed the life of Keith Williamson, a man in his 60s described by friends as a “phenomenal” parent.
A Heroic Effort
Keith’s son, Kevin Williamson, who is in his 30s, is currently in critical condition at Royal Jubilee Hospital. According to a fundraiser organized by family friend Justin Isaac, Kevin sustained “severe damage to his lungs and hands” during a desperate attempt to rescue his father from the inferno.
Just hours before the blaze, the night had been ordinary; Kevin and his friends had been watching hockey and discussing their fantasy league.
The “Wrenchers” Respond
In the wake of the loss, a group of Kevin’s friends—known affectionately in their group chat as the “Wrenchers”—immediately mobilized to help. They describe Kevin as “unapologetically himself and the most genuine person you will come across.”
To assist with his long physical and emotional recovery, the group launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $18,000. The community response has been swift:
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Start Date: January 4
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Amount Raised: Over $13,000 (as of Jan. 8)
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Goal: $18,000
“Life is finite and tomorrow is never promised,” the fundraising page reads. “This will be a long road back for Kevin… but it’s a road we’re going to make as smooth as possible.”
The funds are intended to aid Kevin as he navigates the aftermath of losing both his father and his home in a single night. Those wishing to contribute can find the campaign under the name of Keith and Kevin Williamson.