Mesa, AZ- A Mesa family is in the process of picking up the pieces after an air conditioner fire destroyed the home they were renting. The fire, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, has left the family without a home and has caused significant emotional and financial distress.

Incident Details

The fire started around 3:00 PM in the air conditioning unit of the single-story rental home located on East University Drive. According to the family, they had noticed the air conditioner making unusual noises and emitting a burning smell earlier in the day. Despite turning off the unit and contacting the landlord, the fire broke out before help could arrive.

"The unit was making a strange noise, and there was a burnt smell coming from it. We turned it off and called the landlord, but everything happened so fast," said Maria Gonzalez, the mother. "Within minutes, we saw smoke, and then flames started to spread."

The flames quickly spread from the air conditioning unit to the rest of the house, fueled by the dry, hot weather. The Mesa Fire and Medical Department responded promptly, with firefighters arriving on the scene within minutes of the 911 call. However, the fire had already spread rapidly, causing extensive damage to the home. Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour before it was fully extinguished.

Family's Ordeal

The family of four, including Maria Gonzalez, her husband Jose, and their two young children, managed to escape the house without injury. However, they lost most of their personal belongings in the fire, including furniture, clothing, and cherished family photos. The family is currently staying with relatives while they figure out their next steps.

"We're grateful that we all got out safely, but it's heartbreaking to see everything we've worked for just gone," said Maria. "The kids are especially devastated about losing their toys and school supplies."

The children, ages 6 and 8, are struggling to cope with the loss of their home and possessions. "They keep asking when we can go back home, and it's hard to explain that everything is gone," said Jose Gonzalez. "We’re trying to stay positive for their sake."

Investigation and Cause

Fire investigators from the Mesa Fire and Medical Department have determined that the fire was caused by a malfunction in the air conditioning unit. The exact cause of the malfunction is still under investigation, but initial findings suggest that an electrical fault may have been to blame.

"We are thoroughly investigating the circumstances that led to this unfortunate incident," said Fire Chief Mary Cameli. "It serves as a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of malfunction in household appliances."

The landlord of the property has expressed shock and concern over the incident, stating that the air conditioning unit had been serviced recently. "This is a tragic event, and my heart goes out to the Gonzalez family. I am cooperating fully with the investigation to determine what went wrong," the landlord said.

Community Support

The local community has rallied around the Gonzalez family, offering support and donations. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family cover immediate expenses and start rebuilding their lives. As of now, the page has raised over $15,000, with contributions pouring in from friends, neighbors, and even strangers moved by the family's plight.

Local businesses and neighbors have also contributed clothing, food, and other necessities. "The outpouring of support has been overwhelming," said Jose. "We feel so blessed to have such a caring community around us. It's giving us the strength to move forward."

The family's church has organized a donation drive and is coordinating efforts to provide long-term assistance, including finding a new rental home for the family. "We want to ensure that the Gonzalez family has everything they need to get back on their feet," said Pastor John Williams. "Our community is strong, and we will get through this together."

Fire Safety and Prevention Tips

In light of this incident, the Mesa Fire and Medical Department is reminding residents of the importance of regular maintenance for air conditioning units and other household appliances. They recommend the following tips to prevent similar fires:

- Regular Inspections: Have air conditioning units and other major appliances inspected and serviced by a professional at least once a year.

- *Monitor for Issues: Pay attention to any unusual noises, smells, or performance issues with appliances and address them immediately.

- Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure that smoke alarms are installed in every room and hallway, and test them regularly.

- Have an Escape Plan: Develop and practice a home fire escape plan with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.

- Use Fire Extinguishers: Keep fire extinguishers accessible in key areas of the home, such as the kitchen and near HVAC units, and know how to use them.

Conclusion

The Gonzalez family's experience is a sobering reminder of the potential dangers of household appliance malfunctions. As they begin the process of rebuilding, the community's support and the family's resilience stand as a testament to the strength and compassion of the Mesa community.

For those wishing to help, donations can be made through the family's GoFundMe page or by contacting local community centers coordinating relief efforts. Residents are also encouraged to stay vigilant about home maintenance and fire safety to prevent similar tragedies.

The Mesa Fire and Medical Department continues to provide resources and education on fire prevention and safety. For more information, residents can visit the department's official website or attend upcoming community safety workshops.

In the coming weeks, the community plans to hold a fundraising event, with local bands and food vendors participating, to further support the Gonzalez family. The event aims to raise additional funds and bring the community together in a show of solidarity and support for those affected by the fire.