Homeowner urges to others to prioritize safety over possessions, reassess home insurance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - The aftermath of the blaze that broke out along Rolling River Court in Bellevue on April 21, has a family reminding others of the importance of safety and preparedness.

The homeowner, Marilyn Clanton, is still in disbelief as she recounts the harrowing experience that left her tenant badly burned.

“I was just totally shocked. My daughter and I both were just, we just couldn’t believe what had happened,” she said.

Clanton’s daughter, Monique Taylor, added, “He was so worried about his stuff getting burned. But it was because I’m sure that he was in shock and all.”

The man who lived in the home is in the ICU weeks later, battling third-degree burns to his hands, arm, and back. Despite the physical and emotional toll, Clanton and Taylor are focused on cleaning up and rebuilding the home, a property that’s been owned by their family for nearly 30 years.

However, the family faces unexpected challenges. They recently discovered insurance would not cover the full cost of rebuilding.

“We later learned that the home actually did not have enough insurance on it because my parents bought it such a long time ago,” Taylor explained.

Clanton and Taylor are warning other homeowners, urging them to review their insurance policies carefully to ensure it would cover the full price to rebuild as the cost of living rises.

It’s also advised to have safety plans in place in case there’s an emergency.

Clanton is encouraging everyone to prioritize safety over material possessions.

“Don’t worry about your stuff. Your life is more important,” Clanton said.

As the family works to clean up the property, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help the man in the ICU with third-degree burns.

Additionally, those wishing to support the Clanton family in their rebuilding efforts can reach out via email at 113rebuildproject@gmail.com.

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