“The house was engulfed in smoke, I saw my mom and my niece were standing at the door and they were frantic,” Lucas told FOX2. The father who knew his daughters were still in the basement of the home sleeping, Lucas rushed inside. “I just knew I had to get my babies out,” he said.
Once he got in the home Lucas had trouble seeing because of the smoke, and says the only reason he was able to locate his daughters is because he knew where they were. “I just knew I had to get my babies out. That’s what went through my mind. … You really couldn’t see your hand in front of your face. I really only found my babies due to my memory, just knowing where they were and knowing how to get to them.”
Malaysia and Milan both some time in the ICU but are now back home. Malaysia suffered smoke inhalation and second degree burns.
Lucas’ injuries were more severe. “I was temporarily blind for three days and they said it was a miracle I could see,” he said. “I’ve got burns on my arms, but for the most part, everyone is still here.” Lucas, who said his niece jumped from an upstairs window after going back inside to save a phone, is currently unable to work, and the family is facing extensive medical bills as a result of the fire.
A GoFundMe has been set up and has raised over $200,000 after news spread of Lucas actions.
A few people who’ve donated have left heartwarming messages.
“This young father’s courage and selfless act to save his precious twin baby girls is so worthy of our support and recognition! Prayers up for a speedy healing from the serious injuries,” one person wrote.
“This brother has showed true love for his baby girls. We can learn from this,” wrote another person who left a donation.
The family speculates that flooding issues that preceded the fire may have caused electrical problems resulting in the blaze.