Days before Christmas, a Jones County Sheriff's Department deputy lost his home due to a fire.
Jones County Sheriff's Department Deputy Derick Knight, his wife Joelle and their two daughters lost their home and belongings in a fire Monday evening.
In a press release, Jones County Sheriff Joe Berlin commented on the situation involving the deputy and his family.
"I would like to ask for prayers for one of my deputies, Derick Knight and his family. Their house burned last night and they have lost everything. With it being so close to Christmas, I have a heartache for them. Please keep them in your prayers."
Deputy Knight and his family were able to exit their home without sustaining any injuries.
At the Laurel City Council meeting Tuesday morning, Laurel Police Department Police Chief Tommy Cox commented on the matter saying that the Laurel Police Department and the officers were keeping the family in their thoughts and prayers. He also asked the council members and those in attendance to do so as well.
Sheriff Berlin and the Jones County Sheriff's Department have asked the public or anyone who would like to donate items to do so.
"We will begin taking clothing, supplies, and monetary donations at the Jones County Sheriff's Department main office at 419 Yates Avenue in Laurel today and tomorrow," said Berlin. "Please help if you can. This precious family needs it, so let's help them begin the recovery process here right before Christmas."
Chief Cox also reiterated Sheriff Berlin's statement at the City Council meeting.
Below are clothing sizes needed for the family.
Girls clothes - 4T and 10/12
Girls shoes - Sizes 4 1/2 & Size 3
Woman - Medium shirts, 27, 28 pants or 6/7 pants, Size 9 1/2 shoes
Man - 32x32 jeans, Large shirts, Size 10 shoes.
The press release also noted that personal care items and supplies, along with monetary donations are needed as well.
Deputy Knight was just honored as JCSD Deputy of the Year and awarded the Medal of Valor at the department's Christmas Party. Deputy Knight was injured during a traffic stop by a suspect who slammed his vehicle into Deputy Knight. The suspect then fled the scene in his vehicle and later surrendered himself to authorities at the Jones County Adult Detention Facility.