The 38-year-old passed away on Monday, December 16, after being injured in the fire at his home on West Third Street in Pratt, Kansas. The news was confirmed by Pratt Police in a statement shared on Facebook.
Reports say that when the fire broke out, Matthew was outside the house. Without hesitation, he rushed back inside to save his fiancée, Megan, and two of his children, not knowing they had already escaped to safety. The heroic act showed his selfless love for his family, even in the face of great danger.
The fire department and police arrived at the scene at 2:38 p.m. after receiving reports that people might still be trapped inside the burning home.
By the time they arrived, Megan and the two children had managed to get out, but Matthew was still inside. Firefighters bravely went in and pulled him out of the house.
Despite their efforts, Matthew later died from his injuries. Megan and the children suffered minor injuries but are expected to recover.
Investigators determined the fire was caused by an accidental electrical issue. The tragedy has left the family and the community in deep sorrow, especially as it happened so close to the holidays.
To support Matthew’s family during this difficult time, friends and loved ones created a GoFundMe page to raise funds for his funeral and provide some relief to his grieving family.
So far, the page has raised $3,070. The organizers described Matthew as a hero who showed immense courage by running into the flames to save his family. The page stated, “It’s hard to understand the depth of this loss, not just for his immediate family but for everyone who knew and loved him.”
Matthew’s close friend, Charles Coffman Jr., shared heartfelt words about his bravery and character. “He didn’t hesitate. He didn’t think twice about his own safety.
He went back into that house because his family meant everything to him,” Charles said. He added, “Matthew was the kind of man who would do anything for his family. He loved them so much. Losing him is devastating for all of us, and Christmas will never be the same.”
