Family loses home, dog in fire on New Year’s Eve uplifted by community support

LITTLE RIVER-ACADEMY, Texas — What began as a night of celebration quickly turned tragic for the White family when they discovered their home of nearly three decades engulfed in smoke just minutes before the New Year.

Keith White and his family were celebrating at his sister's house nearby when his nephew noticed smoke coming from their home minutes before midnight on December 31. The family immediately rushed to the house, desperately trying to rescue their Boston Terrier, Olive, who was inside.

“We were trying to kick in doors and windows and holler for her,” White said. “We went around the whole place, opened every spot of it… never a response from her.”

Despite multiple attempts to enter the home, the thick smoke made rescue attempts impossible. The structure remains too unsafe to enter, leaving the family waiting to locate their beloved pet.

“I don't want to know, but I want to know at the same time,” White said.

The Whites have deep roots in Little River Academy, having lived in the home for 29 years. Keith White grew up in the area.  Now, the family is planning their next steps.

The community's response has been immediate and overwhelming. Local businesses, including El Sarape Mexican, have offered free meals to the family, and neighbors have brought clothes, money, and other necessities. 

“It's remarkable,” White said. “Everybody on the street has been over… not just on the street, the whole town.”

Through years of local sports and racing events, the White family has built strong connections throughout the community. These relationships are proving invaluable during their time of need.

Despite the devastating loss, the family is determined to rebuild on the same property. “We're not going anywhere,” White affirmed. “This is our home.”

The family has been particularly affected by losing their dog, Olive. White, who never considered himself a “dog person” before Olive, had formed a special bond with the pet. “She slept on me, she laid with me, she did with all the kids,” he recalled.

As the community continues to rally around the White family, their story serves as a testament to the power of community support in times of crisis.

Those interested in helping the White family can Venmo @BRITTANY-WHITE-0 or @Champ-White-1