Overview

• Steven Weatherford Jr., 37, died in a house fire on Christmas morning in Oakland after ensuring his father, aunt, and brother safely escaped the burning home.
• Weatherford returned to the house to retrieve an engagement ring he planned to use to propose to his girlfriend, LaShante Mayo, on New Year’s Eve.
• Firefighters found Weatherford unconscious inside the home, with officials stating he likely succumbed to smoke inhalation.
• The fire, which authorities believe was accidental, started early on December 25 and was extinguished within 30 minutes by Oakland Fire Department crews.
• A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $16,000 to support Weatherford’s family with funeral expenses and other immediate financial needs.