By Scott Carlson-NP Post
KEARNEY, Neb.-Just after lunchtime on March 18, 2021, Jess Montgomery would become the victim of a tragedy that is unimaginable to most of us.
At 12:42 p.m., the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department responded to a structure fire at a residence in the 3300 block of Avenue I. Upon arrival, firefighters reported a structure fully engulfed in flames.
As firefighters entered the residence to perform a preliminary search, they located 39-year-old Lori Montgomery and two of her young children, Austin, 4, and Emmah, 2.
Lori and her children were rushed to CHI Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney where they all succumbed to their injuries sustained in the fire.
Lori's husband Jess and their daughter Hanna were not home at the time.
Jess is a popular cook at the Applebee's in Kearney, and residents have been voicing their support for the family.
His friend Josh Howell describes him as, "that goofy brother that's always picking on you in a loving way."
In addition to the unimaginable loss of their family members, Jess and Hanna lost all clothing and other belongings that were in the residence.
A GoFundMe account has been established to support Jess and Hanna as they begin their path to healing.
Howell, the organizer of the effort, says monetary donations are appreciated, but donations of clothing and other needs will be accepted as well.
Jess wears a size medium shirt and his pants size is 29x32. Hanna is a size 5.
If you would like to make a donation of clothing or other items, they can be dropped off at the Kearney Applebee's location, 5605 2nd Avenue.
The obituary for the Mongomery's can be found HERE
To donate to the GoFundMe account, click HERE
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