Tragic Fire Devastates Local Family

An account has been set up at First Bank & Trust in Milbank to help the Steve and April Griffee family. The family is reeling from the loss of their 11-year-old son, Cade, in a fire on Friday, January 10.  In addition, the Griffee’s home and all their belongings were destroyed in the blaze.

Milbank Fire Chief David Giesen reports that at approximately 9:15 a.m. on Friday, January 10, the Milbank Fire and Rescue team was dispatched to assist the Summit Fire Department at a house fire at 45691 146th Street. The Marvin and Corona fire departments arrived to provide assistance. Grant County Emergency Management, Grant-Roberts Ambulance Service, and the Grant County Sheriff’s Department also provided mutual aid. Summit Fire Chief Cal Pies said by the time the fire crew arrived the house was fully engulfed. The home was considered a total loss.  

According to Pies, the initial investigation indicates the fire started in the garage. Pies confirmed a vehicle belonging to the Grant County Sheriff’s Department was also destroyed. Pies, who has served as the Summit Fire Chief for 15 years, stated, “The Summit crew was on the scene for approximately seven hours.”

“No further details are available at this time as the cause of the fire is still under investigation by DCI and the office of the State Fire Marshal, “ Giesen said. 

Officer Griffee has been in law enforcement in the area for many years, and according to the Milbank Police Department, Steve is a valued and dedicated part-time officer on the force. They urge everyone to consider helping the family financially if possible and with thoughts and prayers.

Officer Griffee serves as a deputy for the Grant County Sheriff’s Department. According to the Grant County Fraternal Order of  Police Lodge NE 14, a  FundtheFirst fundraiser has been started on FundtheFirst.com. The for-good company charges no fee other than for transactions. So far, $14,000 has been raised for the Griffees, but much more is needed. Unable to give financially? Studies show even sharing this information will result in 53 percent more donations.

A meal train has been set up to assist the Griffees with food. A local group collected clothing for Steve, April,  and their four surviving children. The response from the community was extremely generous and no more clothing is needed at this time. The Grant County Sheriff’s Department suggests supporting the family using the First Bank & Trust fund, cash, gift cards, and digital donations.