NOME, Alaska – A lone fire on a quiet Sunday evening ripped through the modest ATCO trailer where 77-year-old Paul Haskell and his faithful dog, Pluto, had taken refuge. What started as an attempt to warm the trailer turned into a catastrophe that destroyed not only Paul’s home but nearly everything he owned.
According to the Nome Volunteer Fire Department, the blaze originated after Paul lit his fireplace inside the trailer. He later noticed flames creeping into the eaves. Acting quickly, Paul endeavored to douse the flames himself, climbing a ladder and using a bucket of water, before realizing the fire was spreading too rapidly.
Firefighters arrived and battled the blaze through the night. After putting out the initial flames, they used thermal imaging to detect hotspots, noting temperatures still reaching 60 °F. They warned Paul not to sleep in the structure, citing the lingering chemicals from their efforts. He heeded the warning. But later, just after 7:15 a.m., the trailer was engulfed once more and collapsed to ashes.
Fortunately, Paul and Pluto escaped injury, but Paul lost everything: his belongings, his clothing, and his shelter. Due to severe Parkinson’s disease, he is particularly vulnerable in Alaska’s harsh winters.
Local friends and community members have launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Rebuild Paul’s Home.” The fundraiser seeks $7,000 to secure a connex box, insulate it, and convert it into a temporary dwelling for Paul before winter’s onset. The campaign also appeals for essential clothing, personal items, and warm gear to help him and his dog weather the cold.
If you wish to support Paul Haskell in rebuilding his life after this devastating loss, you can donate at:
👉 Help Rebuild Paul’s Home — GoFundMe
Each small act of kindness can help restore dignity, warmth, and hope to a man who lost everything in a single night.
