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Memorial Fund Set Up For Family Of 12-Year-Old Killed In Montgomery County Fire

NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) -- A 12-year-old child has died following a fire in Montgomery County and a memorial fund has been set up to help his family.

The blaze on Markley Street and Scott Alley in Norristown was placed under control just after 10 a.m. Friday.

The family tells CBS 3 the victim is 12-year-old Sanford Harling III, whose nickname is "Man-Man."

The fire reached two alarms and the Red Cross is responding to the scene. The cause is under investigation.

The 12-year-old victim died after running into his family's burning home in an attempt to save his father, according to Councilman Hakim Jones.

Sanford played on the 6th grade team in the Norristown Youth Eagles football league. Jones said Sanford could be seen cheering and praying for his teammates. Off the field, the boy is described as funny and bright.

Sanford is survived by his father, Sanford, Jr., his mother Dana and his siblings.

The "My little Hero: Sanford Harling III Memorial Fund" has been set up to give Sanford a proper burial and to assist his family, who now need to purchase clothing, food and medication. Jones says 100% of the funds raised will go to the Harling family.

All cash related donations are asked to go through the GoFundMe page, www.gofundme.com/sanfordharling.

Gift cards can be dropped off at Eisenhower Science and Technology Leadership Academy, located at the Eisenhower Middle School on 1601 Markley Street, Norristown, PA 19401, Attn. Principal Taylor.

If you'd like to make arrangements for a gift card to be picked up, please contact Councilman Jones at 484-744-9040 or hjones@norristown.org.

This is the only fund that is authorized and approved by the family.

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