Trust fund established to help victims in Mackenzie tragedy

A trust fund is now taking donations for the Mackenzie family who lost everything in a Tuesday morning fire.

Richard Fleury and Lanora (Lana) Baxter and their daughter Katelin barely escaped the flames that destroyed their home on Kerry Crescent. Twin children Joseph and Gabrielle, 22 months old, could not be saved despite repeated attempts to reach them by family, neighbours and first responders.

Emotional support has been enacted for any, including the first responders, who feel affected by the incident.

"The community is showing a lot of support for this situation, and our gratitude is for those who have already done so much and those who will come forward in the future now to help out," said the parents' uncle Barry Baxter. "People are bringing food over, giving their condolence, phoning to offer clothing or household items, things are already being gathered. It is quite a generous open hand."

The BID Group of companies has a connection to the victims and has already established a payroll deduction system for all employees, with a company pledge and ownership pledge already confirmed as well.

Anyone from the general public who wishes to donate can do so at any branch of Scotiabank using account No. 007600210781.

The cause of the fire has not been determined, but the investigation is ongoing. Mackenzie RCMP told The Citizen on Wednesday that all options remain open but there is no obvious signs of foul play.