$81,000 raised for Boutte family who lost home in fire

Approximately $81,000 in donations has been raised to help LSU running back Alfred Blue and his family after a fire destroyed their home in September, according to LSU Sports Information Director Michael Bonnette.

The NCAA has permitted the fund, which will receive donations through the Tiger Athletic Foundation. Under NCAA Bylaw 16.11.12, fundraisers are acceptable in "extreme circumstances ... extraordinary in the result of events beyond the student-athlete’s control."

The fundraising is permissible as long as the proceeds are designated for a specific purpose such as the replacement of belongings lost in a fire.

Investigators with the Luling Volunteer Fire Department were unable to identify the cause of the fire. The fire, which occurred on Sept. 27, started in a back bedroom of the home, according to Luling Assistant Fire Chief Armond Bourque.

"When we arrived, the home was fully engulfed in flames," Bourque said. "We were able to determine that the fire started in the rear of the structure, but we have not been able to determine the cause. We do not suspect foul play and we believe that the fire was accidental."

Blue’s mother, grandmother and three younger siblings lived in the home, but no one was inside at the time of the fire. However, the home and the family’s belongings were destroyed.

Blue has rushed for 449 yards on 70 carries this season and has scored six touchdowns. In the Tigers’ 42-9 victory over Western Kentucky, Blue rushed for a career high 119 yards on nine carries.

Those interested in assisting Blue and his family can make contributions to the Tiger Athletic Foundation by going to www.lsutaf.org.