SASKATOON—Friends of the family of the late Douglas James Murray of Saskatoon, who tragically died in a house fire last week, have started a after the family lost their home, memories and personal belongings. The goal is to raise $9,000 to help with expenses and other needs.
On Monday, Feb. 17, the Saskatoon Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 2200 block of 20th Street West. The incident was reported at 3:08 a.m., and three fire engines, a ladder truck, a rescue unit and the battalion chief were dispatched. The first crews arrived at 3:14 a.m. and saw heavy smoke coming from the bungalow.
The SFD has yet to release an official report on the fire's cause, origin and damage estimate. However, a space heater allegedly started the fire that took Murray’s life and caused irreparable damage to their house, which has been boarded up.
Deanne Jory and Samantha Johnson started the , which, as of posting time, has already raised $1,310 for the family of the beloved son, father of two, grandson, nephew and friend. The campaign description says, he leaves behind his mother, Darcey Lensen Stammers, and his two minor sons. Stammers lived with Murray as she was taking care of her son after getting involved in a car accident in 2022.
Murray suffered a traumatic brain injury and was in a coma for several weeks. After recovering, he needed extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation, prompting his mother to move into the house that previously belonged to her father in Saskatoon. Stammers was beside her son, helping him financially and emotionally.
“Having to bear the loss of her one and only child and her home is extremely overwhelming, and we’re asking for donations on Darcey’s behalf to help support her through this extremely difficult time. The sadness and grief will remain in everyone touched by Doug’s life, and we will never forget his charisma and spirit. We are asking for donations for Darcey, a grieving mother who has lost everything: her only child, her home and her belongings. We are also looking to have a memorial for Doug and provide support so his sons can have a bright and promising future," stated the GoFundMe campaign.
