TROY, Ala. — The Allen family is still reeling from the destruction caused by an EF-2 tornado that ravaged their home over the weekend. What was left behind, however, is not just the wreckage of their property but the haunting worry that their remaining belongings might be taken by others.
The family, already overwhelmed by the loss, discovered that items had been moved or even taken from their damaged property. Patricia Allen, a member of the family, who has been at the site daily to salvage any valuables, reported seeing a hot water heater pulled to the side, as if someone had planned to pick it up.
Despite being out there to recover her father’s personal items, Allen noticed that things were mysteriously missing. The family suspects that looters have targeted them, particularly since no utility trucks have arrived to assist with the cleanup efforts. “It’s really sad that someone would take advantage of people. I know it looks like a bunch of junk, but we could use that scrap metal for money to go toward my dad’s medical expenses and his needs,” Allen said, expressing frustration over the situation.
Later that same day, authorities arrested 54-year-old Alfonso Lark, charging him with felony looting. Police confirmed that Lark had taken items from the Allen family’s damaged property located on Highway 29. In light of this, Allen is hopeful that the arrest will serve as a warning to others that such behavior will not be tolerated.
“We’ve already lost so much,” Allen said. “It’s bad enough that he’s left with little to nothing, and now we have to worry about looters.”
As they continue to search through the debris for any valuable items that might have been buried, the family is also looking to the community for help. They have set up a GoFundMe page to assist with their father’s medical bills, as he does not have insurance, and to help replace their lost home and car. Many have already reached out, offering furniture and other donations. However, Allen emphasized the need for a place to put these items, as the family has no home to call their own at the moment.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Allen expressed gratitude for the kindness shown by others. “We are thankful for those who have cooked meals for us and donated money or items to help us get back on our feet,” she said. “Every little bit helps.”
As the family works through the difficult process of rebuilding their lives, they remain hopeful that with the support of their community, they will find a way to overcome the devastation caused by the tornado and the heartbreaking theft of their belongings.
