A volunteer firefighter continued fighting the Aspen Acres Fire even after learning the wildfire had destroyed his family’s home

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. — As the Aspen Acres Fire forced thousands from their homes, a Colorado family with deep ties to the fire service lost its home to the wildfire.

Retired firefighter Nicole Griggs evacuated from the family’s Beulah home while her husband, Donald Griggs, and their son stayed behind to help battle the fire, 9 News reported. Donald, a volunteer firefighter, has continued working alongside crews from across Colorado and other states even after learning his home had been destroyed.

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“I don’t know that it’s actually sunk in that everything I’ve owned was gone,” Donald said.

The fire also destroyed the home of Donald’s father, Bob Griggs. Despite the losses, Donald said he remains focused on helping protect other homes, while Nicole said community support has helped the family through the uncertainty.

Nicole told 9 News that both homes were destroyed within about four hours.

The Griggs family plans to rebuild and is temporarily renting a home in Pueblo after friends offered them a place to stay.

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