COLUMBIA, S.C. — For Samuel “Boomer” Bouknight, known for his humor and outspoken nature, being at a loss for words is rare. But after a fire destroyed his family’s home of 25 years, speechlessness and numbness are all he feels.
“Every time I look at the place, just like all these years and memories and family… I don’t know how to put it into words. I’m speechless at the moment,” Bouknight said.
The fire broke out around 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 1. Bouknight was heading out for work when his son noticed the water pressure in the kitchen sink had dropped. Moments later, the family’s 2,100-square-foot home was engulfed in flames.
“My Uncle Thomas gave me a call and said, ‘Boomer’s house is on fire.’ I about dropped to my knees,” recalled neighbor and friend Athena Lakosky.
According to Pomaria Fire Chief Barry Richardson, an electrical shortage in the water heater sparked the blaze. Emergency responders, including three fire departments, Newberry EMS, and the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, arrived within minutes.
The fire was under control within 30 minutes, and thankfully, Bouknight, his wife, and their youngest son escaped unharmed. However, the home was left unrecognizable.
In the aftermath, the Pomaria community rallied around the Bouknight family.
“We’ve had well over 100 people offer to help,” Lakosky said. She and her uncle immediately took to social media, spreading the word through Newberry Facebook groups.
Within 48 hours, neighbors provided meals, clothes, pet food, and other essentials for the family. But according to Bouknight, in Pomaria, that's simply what they do.
“Everybody around here takes care and looks out for each other. This is God’s country, and it’s true,” Bouknight said. “This community has always been there for each other. It’s just the way it is.”
Though the Pomaria Fire Department has yet to determine the total amount of damages, Bouknight said he plans to renovate and refurbish his home.
For those who wish to contribute, donations can be made through the family’s GoFundMe page here.