Local
Van Zandt County barbecue fundraiser draws 120 volunteers after deputy’s death and fatal house fire
A barbecue fundraiser organized by former restaurateur Ryan Hanson brought more than 120 volunteers together to support families grieving a sheriff’s deputy’s death and a fire that killed a mother and four children. About 400 plates had been served by noon in exchange for donations.
More than 120 volunteers joined a Van Zandt County barbecue fundraiser to support families affected by two tragedies: the line-of-duty death of Sheriff’s Deputy Ahmed “Adam” Sherifi and a house fire that killed a mother and four children, leaving a 7-year-old child as the sole survivor.
Former restaurateur Ryan Hanson organized the gathering after learning of the deputy’s death and an injured police officer. The fire occurred that same night. Hanson said the news spurred him to use his smokers and property to bring people together and raise money for the families.
The effort grew quickly. Hanson said more than 120 people had volunteered over two days, and about 400 plates of barbecue had been served by noon in exchange for donations. No fundraising total was reported.
For Jim Bradberry, a Van resident, the turnout reflected a community habit of helping neighbors across differences. Residents also gathered to pray, while Sherifi’s truck served as a reminder of the loss.
Hanson said he hoped the gathering would offer support beyond financial help, bringing people together as they grieve.