NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) – A North Tonawanda firefighter targeted by racist threats has lost his home to a fire.

Kenneth Walker recently received a piece of paper in his mailbox containing a racist message and a threat.

On Wednesday afternoon, Walker’s Oliver St. home caught fire.

As authorities investigate the message and the fire, U.S. Attorney William Hochul said the threat is being reviewed.

“This Office has been asked by the media about a certain letter received recently by an NT firefighter,” Hochul said. “This Office can’t comment since this matter is being reviewed. The public should know that we take all such incidents extremely seriously.”

Residents in North Tonawanda told News 4, they’re fearful for their safety knowing someone like this could be living in their community.

“I have two young children and for myself and for many others who would be considered minorities or whatever the case is, it is scary,” said Munisa M, resident.

“The hate and the evil intentions that they had, I think it’s very disappointing for the community to have this happen, and North Tonawanda is small, so to have something like this happen, it’s literally right around the block from us,” said Courtney Ranney, resident.

Donations for Walker and his family will be accepted at the Gratwick Hose Volunteer Fire Company this Sunday from 10-2 p.m. The fire hall is located at 110 Ward Rd. in North Tonawanda.

Everything from toys to daily living supplies will be accepted.

A donation site has also been set up for Walker through GoFundMe. It can be found here.