Structure fire displaces Tea family on New Year’s Eve

A residential structure fire late New Year’s Eve destroyed a home in Tea, displacing the Hastings family and prompting an outpouring of community support.

Tea Fire was dispatched to the fire at approximately 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31, in the 2500 block of North Devon Avenue. Upon arrival, crews observed flames coming from both the house and the attached garage and immediately began suppression efforts.

Tea Fire was assisted on scene by Harrisburg Community Fire & Rescue, Sioux Falls Fire Rescue, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, the Tea Police Department and Lincoln County Emergency Management.

As of 3:05 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1, Tea and Harrisburg fire crews remained on scene extinguishing hot spots and conducting cleanup operations. North Devon Avenue was temporarily closed between North Ivy Road and North Penny Street while emergency personnel worked. The roadway reopened later that morning.

All residents and the family’s three dogs were able to escape the home safely, and no injuries were reported.

Tea Fire officials extended thanks to the Tea Fire Auxiliary for providing food and refreshments to crews during the overnight response, as well as to the Bender family for delivering coffee to firefighters and opening their home for restroom use.

“Our hearts truly ache for the Hastings family,” officials shared, noting the total loss of the home.

In the days following the fire, several donation efforts were organized to support the Hastings family. 

A GoFundMe account has also been established to assist the family and has raised more than $19,000 as of this week. Funds will be used to help secure temporary housing, replace essential items lost in the fire, and begin the long process of rebuilding.

In addition to monetary donations, community organizers report the family has received sufficient clothing to meet their immediate needs. 

Other donations and financial contributions are still being accepted.

Donation drop-off locations include:

Lauriebelles in Tea (central drop-off location)

Bender’s, 2505 N. Devon Ave.

Ryan’s, 2610 N. Devon Ave.

Decker’s, 2510 N. Devon Ave.

Monetary donations may also be made via Venmo at @Brady-Hastings-1.