Victor Cola Jr. Obituary, death, 74, of New Iberia, Louisiana, Tragically Passes Away in Devastating House Fire, Leaving Behind a Community in Mourning and a Family Devastated by the Sudden Loss of a Loved One, While a Nearby Family, the Jones, Narrowly Escape the Inferno, Only to be Left Homeless and Seeking Community Support
_Tragedy Strikes on Friday Night_
On Friday night, December 13, 2024, tragedy struck in New Iberia, Louisiana, when 74-year-old Victor Cola Jr. lost his life in a devastating house fire. The incident occurred just before midnight, when the New Iberia Police Department received a call about a fire at a home on Elizabeth Street.
_Fatal Fire and Investigation_
Upon arrival, officers discovered that Cola had died inside his home. The victim was later identified by his daughter, Inga Dorsey. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the police have not yet released any further details about the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
_Nearby Family Narrowly Escapes the Inferno_
In a separate but equally distressing situation, Marissa Jones and her family, living in a nearby house, were alerted to the fire by a concerned neighbor. Initially, they mistook the sounds of the fire for a gunshot, not realizing the severity of the situation. Around 10:30 p.m., they were awoken by what they thought were fireworks. Realizing the danger, Jones and her husband immediately woke their three children and evacuated their home.
_Devastating Consequences for the Jones Family_
After escaping the house, they were struck by the sight of the flames consuming the nearby property. Jones described the moment as one where “everything set in,” and she felt her body go numb from the shock of the situation. Fortunately, the family made it out safely, but their home suffered extensive damage. According to Jones, the roof of their house was completely destroyed, and parts of the structure caved in.
_Community Support and Fundraising Efforts_
In addition to the damage to their home, Jones’ husband’s car was also destroyed in the fire. This loss has left the family not only without a place to live but also without the vehicle that was essential for daily commuting to work. Jones expressed that the damage to their home was a significant blow to her family, but she also emphasized the importance of having an escape plan in place in case of emergencies.
Reflecting on the traumatic experience, she urged other homeowners to think ahead and plan escape routes in the event of a fire. The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for necessary repairs to their home and to assist with funeral expenses for their deceased neighbor, Victor Cola Jr.
_Prevention and Fire Safety_
This tragic event highlights the unpredictable and destructive nature of fires. For the Jones family, it has been an emotionally and financially challenging time. However, through their GoFundMe campaign, they aim to raise awareness and rally support from the community to help them rebuild their lives and cope with the losses they have experienced. This incident also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness.
_Conclusion_
Victor Cola Jr. may be gone, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy as a devoted family member and a valued member of the New Iberia community will continue to inspire those who knew him. The Jones family, who narrowly escaped the inferno, is now focused on recovery, both physically and emotionally, and hopes to raise funds for the necessary repairs and funeral expenses. This tragic event serves as an important reminder to all homeowners about the importance of preparation, as the unpredictable nature of fires can change lives in an instant.
