Launch of a fundraiser for a 6-year-old child killed in the Orleans fire

The mother of a six-year-old boy who died in a house fire in Orleans on Saturday has started a GoFundMe for the family’s funeral and recovery costs.

Shantal Thomas wrote on the page that the funds will go towards the funeral costs of her son, Kyi Odeen Bourne, as well as helping his family get back on their feet after the fire. Thomas, her husband and their 8-year-old daughter are looking for financial assistance in the form of food, clothing and housing.

“Thank you all in advance,” she wrote. “Prayers for my family to get through this difficult time.”

She added that her son has autism, his favorite color is red, and he loves the SpongeBob SquarePants franchise and The Boss Baby.

“Kyi has a heart of gold. Kyi loves, loves, loves everyone. Kyi would walk into a room and light up the world,” Thomas told WCVB.

On Monday night, the family received more than $40,000, surpassing their goal of $25,000. Over 600 donations were made.

The fire occurred around 8:40 p.m. Saturday at 177 Route 6A in Orleans. When the fire department arrived they were told the boy was still in the house and they began to search.

When found, the 6-year-old was taken to hospital, where he later died. Four other occupants were also injured, but survived.

Firefighters managed to contain the fire within 20 minutes.