URGENT UPDATE: A heroic mother in St. Johns County saved her children from a devastating house fire early Tuesday morning, but tragically lost one of their beloved cats. The community is now stepping up to support the family, with nearly $10,000 raised through an online fundraiser to assist them during this crisis.
In the early hours of November 2, 2025, a loud noise roused Marina Samoilich from sleep in their Julington Creek home. Without hesitation, she rushed to rescue her son and his cousin, who was visiting for a sleepover. As flames engulfed their home, she bravely re-entered to save their family dog. Sadly, one of their two cats, named Silver, followed her back inside and did not survive the blaze.
Now, as the family begins to rebuild, local residents are showing their support. Over 120 people have donated to the fundraising effort, providing essential financial aid amidst their loss. “It’s been amazing. People I’ve never met have been giving me hugs, giving us clothes, praying for us, and giving us monetary support,” said Roman Samoilich, Marina’s husband, in a statement to News4JAX. “This is more than I could have ever asked for.”
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but Roman suspects it may be linked to an electrical problem in the attic. Fortunately, their surviving cat, Cinnamon, is recovering after suffering burns to her paws and losing all her whiskers. The family expressed gratitude to Capital Veterinary Specialists for assisting with her veterinary care.
As the community rallies behind the Samoilich family, they continue to express their appreciation for the outpouring of support during this challenging time. The family plans to utilize the funds raised to cover immediate living expenses while they navigate the rebuilding process.
Officials urge residents to remain vigilant about fire safety, especially during the colder months, as fire hazards can increase. The community’s response showcases the strength of local support in times of crisis, reminding everyone of the importance of coming together when disaster strikes.
Stay tuned for more updates as the investigation into the fire develops and as the Samoilich family embarks on their journey to recovery.
