Late last month, the wife of Nashville International Department of Public Safety K9 officer wife woke up to an "explosion" on the back deck
Credit: Mt. Juliet Fire Department
NEED TO KNOW
- Late last month, K9 officer Brian Robbins lost his home in a devastating fire
- Afterwards, local agencies, including the Mt. Juliet Police Department, rallied to support Robbins and his family, raising tens of thousands
- Since then, officials share they have determined the cause of the blaze
After an airport K9 police officer’s home was destroyed by a fire, his Tennessee community rallied together, raising thousands to help his family rebuild.
At 6:15 a.m. local time on Thursday, March 26, Nashville International Department of Public Safety K9 officer Brian Robbins' wife woke up to an "explosion" on the back deck of their Swallow Cove home, said Mt. Juliet Public Information Officer Justin Beasley.
The family of five, a number that includes the couples' two dogs as well as their cat, were able to escape safely, although one of their dogs was left with slightly burned paws.
The cause of the fire was later determined to be rags soaked in wood stain, which had been left near fabrics that eventually began to produce heat, Brent Blamires, Chief of Prevention and Fire Marshal, tells PEOPLE.
Blamires said if the rags aren't dried out, they'll heat up over time, which is what led to the deck catching on fire.
The Mt. Juliet Police Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for more information on Wednesday, April 8.
In the hours following the fire, Robbins and his family experienced an outpouring of support.
“This morning, we stood alongside our partners at Airport Police to support one of their own during an incredibly difficult time,” said Mt. Juliet police Chief Tyler Chandler in the statement. “This officer has dedicated years of service to protecting others, and today, our community is coming together to support him and his family.”
As a way to help Robbins rebuild his home, the Mt. Juliet Police Foundation began taking donations — and as of Monday, April 6, the foundation raised over $30,000, the police department said in a social media post.
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“The family has expressed their deep appreciation for the overwhelming support and kindness shown during such a difficult time,” officials said.
The Mt. Juliet Police Foundation is a registered organization that donates 100% of the funds raised directly to the family.
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