Overview
- The kitchen fire that erupted April 4 in Neuville-Vitasse forced two children to shelter as flames spread through the house.
- Gabin led his 5-year-old sister to the basement, went back for the dog, and shut a door before a burst of smoke, then firefighters rescued them.
- His father, a former firefighter, had taught him basic fire safety, and the family links his calm response to traits of his autism.
- An expert review found toxic gases and soot made belongings impossible to recover, leaving the family with total material loss.
- Neighbors, local officials, and donors have rallied with clothes, toys, food, a crowdfunding drive, and a search for temporary housing in the 500-person village.