West explosion victims remembered at park, memorial

WEST, Texas ( FOX 44 ) — Eleven years ago, the small town of West, Texas, was forever altered by a devastating fertilizer fire that claimed lives and ravaged homes.

Today, a park and memorial serve as poignant reminders of this tragic day.

On April 17, 2013, a fire engulfed the town. This resulted in the deaths of five firefighters and numerous citizens who bravely fought to contain the explosion.

Among those lost was firefighter Joey Pustejovsky. In honor of his father’s legacy, four-year-old Parker Pustejovsky conceived the idea to transform the local park, which is a cherished spot in their community.

Parker and a dedicated committee organized a fundraising effort by selling hot dogs, ultimately raising over $200,000. The funds were pivotal in the creation of Parker’s Park, a playground cherished by West’s residents today.

“It’s been a very, very good addition to our community,” said Joe Pustejovsky, Parker’s grandfather. “For the most part, everybody respects it and preserves it as much as we can.”

Now at age 15, Joe says his grandson Parker is very protective of the park and memorial. He visits them often and makes sure they are in good condition.

Adjacent to Parker’s Park stands a solemn memorial adorned with photographs and stories of the fallen heroes. It serves as a place for the community to pay their respects and commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice while striving to protect their town.

The park and memorial stand as symbols of resilience and remembrance in West, a testament to the enduring spirit of its residents in the face of tragedy.

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