Community remains strong as residents face damage in Stillwater

The damage caused by Friday's wildfires has left Stillwater devastated, with many homes destroyed. As residents return to their neighborhoods this morning, the full extent of the destruction is becoming clear.

Bill Patterson, a Stillwater resident, described his sense of disbelief as he returned home to find his house still standing.

"It’s just horrible," Patterson said. "I really didn’t think we would come home to a house, to be quite frank."

Patterson and his neighbors are among the lucky ones, but many of their homes and belongings are lost.

"It’s just unbelievable," Patterson said. Despite the devastation, Patterson echoed the sentiment of many in the community: Stillwater strong.

“Everybody will rally together, help everybody out," he added. "That’s just what this town is all about.”

The community is already coming together to support those affected by the fires, with leaders and volunteers working to help rebuild and recover.