MAUI, Hawaii — When Patrick Laughlin moved to Hawaii 15 years ago, he never imagined he would encounter a wildfire like he did this week. The St. Louis Park native lost everything.
"The last 20 years of possessions from my life -- all gone," Laughlin said.
He lived just north of Lahaina, a town devastated by the fire. Laughlin says it's just ash and rubble. The home he rented burned down. The fire stealing all of his life possessions. All he has left are the clothes on his back, and one extra shirt.
"You have to work really hard to live here. Maui isn't cheap," Laughlin explained.
He estimates he lost a total of $50,000 in personal belongings and says he didn't have renters' insurance. One thing he still has is his spirit.
"Ohana means family. We all really are family here. We are doing what we can to get each other support and aid," Laughlin said.
On Thursday night, the Hawaii governor said the wildfire could be the worst natural disaster the state has ever seen. Authorities say 53 people have died and the number is expected to increase. Federal resources are being deployed to help with recovery efforts.
If you would like to help Patrick, you can make a donation to his verified GoFund Me account.
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