PORTLAND, Ore. — A couple lost everything they own in a sailboat fire early Monday morning on the Willamette River. But they’re thankful for their dog, who they credit for saving their lives.
The sailboat meant the world to 59-year-old Peter Sostilio, who had been living on the streets, before he was able to save up enough money to purchase the sailboat. Now both he and his girlfriend are having to start over again.
“Me and my lady were laying down this morning, it was about 4:30 or 5:00 and my dog was barking, to and my boat was in flames,” said Sostilio.
Sostilio and his girlfriend had to jump into the cold Willamette River to escape the flames. They both were able to escape safely, but Sostilio suffered burns to the side of his face, and his girlfriend suffered burns to her leg.
Life on the boat according to Sostilio was supposed to be temporary. He added that he was living on the streets under a tent, before purchasing the 22-foot boat for nearly $4,000 and was working to save up enough money to get into an apartment.
Even though the home he shared with his girlfriend is gone, he’s thankful for his dog saving his life and his girlfriend’s.
A spokesperson for Portland Fire and Rescue are still trying to determine what started the fire.
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