Leo “Bubby” Strode was just nine months old when he suffered horrific burns in a fire caused by space heaters in a shed where his parents had left him alone. The blaze, which happened on May 25, 2020, in Oakville, Washington, cost Bubby his fingers, toes, and eyelids. He underwent 19 surgeries and will need more in the future.

His parents, who have since lost custody, were known to child protective services before his birth. Despite repeated warnings from the community — including doctors, a gas station worker, and a police officer — state officials failed to act. Now, his adoptive family is suing the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families for $165 million, claiming the agency neglected to protect him.

“There were so many red flags, and nobody did anything,” said his adoptive mom, Sarah Strode.

Bubby now lives with the Strode family, who specialize in caring for medically fragile children. Among them is his older sister Addie, a fellow burn survivor. Though he still requires round-the-clock care and struggles with anxiety, Bubby is thriving.

“He wants to be part of everything,” said his adoptive father, David. “He adapts so well.”

Addie hopes her experience helps Bubby feel less alone. “He can always come to me,” she said.