Local nonprofit starts fundraiser to support parents of 2-year-old killed in mobile home fire

CLEARFIELD TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A devastating fire claimed the life of a 2-year-old boy over the weekend in Butler County.

Jesse Umbaugh became trapped in his family’s mobile home off Old Route 422 when it caught fire early Saturday morning. His parents, Alex Umbaugh and Melina Bryner, suffered serious burns trying to get back into their home to rescue him. They were taken by helicopter to Pittsburgh hospitals.

“They both got third-degree burns trying to go in and rescue their son,” said Daniel Weidenhof. “I would do the same thing. They were both life flighted because of the burns they took to save him, and there was no way, the fire between them and him there was no way around.”

Weidenhof started Fireproof, a nonprofit that helps fire victims. He’s organizing a fundraiser to help Alex and Melina during this tough time and is asking for help from the community.

“If there’s any way you can help —if it’s monetary or clothing — we have it on our page. They need clothes, everyday supplies as far as toothpaste and toothbrush we only supplied for a few days,” Weidenhof said.

Weidenhof started the nonprofit after his family lost their home in a fire. It has since helped more than a dozen families in Butler, Clarion and Armstrong counties since 2023.

“It’s something you never forget, just starting from scratch without having support behind you. Thankfully, ea we did. You don’t know where to turn, don’t know what to do,” he said.

Alex was released from the hospital, and at last check, Melina is still recovering in the burn unit.

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