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McAlister family releases statement, sets up GoFundMe page

McAlister family releases statement
McAlister family releases statement
Posted at 12:38 PM, Oct 02, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-02 15:26:29-04

The family who lost two members in a rural house fire/officer-involved shooting south of Meridian last week released a statement Monday thanking all the first responders and emergency and hospital personnel.

The victims were identified as 54-year-old Scott McAlister and his mother, 84-year-old Carmen Abbott.

Officials say Abbott was found dead at the scene. McAlister later died at the Salt Lake City Burn center, where he had been airlifted.

Scott McAlister’s wife, Lily, survived.

The fire broke out late Wednesday after a home invasion was reported at the residence.

Issued by a family spokesperson, the statement reads:

“The family of Scott and Lily McAlister wish to thank the first responders that came to their home on the fateful night of September 27, 2017. The heroic efforts of the (Ada County) Sheriff's deputies, Meridian and Boise Police officers, as well as all the firefighting personnel that came to their rescue deserve thanks beyond words.  

“The loss of Scott's mother, Carmen Abbott, is a tragedy that is indescribable.  They also wish to thank the emergency personnel of St. Luke's-Meridian, St. Al’s, and the University of Utah Burn Unit for all their efforts in trying to save Scott and provide Lily with the best emergency care.

“Now Lily is tasked with starting over.  The fire that destroyed their residence left her without a vehicle, a home, and the needs of everyday life. Lily is going to take some time to be with family and begin sorting out the process for the near and long-term future for her.  

“She will have needs for her now and later and she is grateful to live in a community that has already reached out to her emotionally and financially, but her needs will continue for a period of time.  

“If you would like to assist Lily, you can do so by making a contribution at: https://www.gofundme.com/lily-mcalister-fund[gofundme.com].”

The Ada County Sheriff's Office says it believes a third person who died in the fire may be the home invasion suspect.

Investigators said Friday they found no connection between the victims and the suspect.

The investigation is continuing.

(Associated Press contributed to this report)