By John Dobberstein, Editor
COWETA — Wagoner County Sheriff’s deputies are being credited for saving an elderly woman and pets from a raging fire in Coweta.
Deputies were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 13400 block of S. 254th East Avenue at 3 a.m. on Jan. 18. Deputies Seung Kim and Michael Burnside, and WCSO Lt. P. Ashley responded to the scene along with local fire departments.
Witnesses said deputies, encountering a chaotic scene, “acted quickly and decisively” in dangerous conditions. During the fire, one resident was injured while attempting to move vehicles away from the flames. At the same time, another resident remained inside the home and was unable to exit safely, the department said.
Burnside, the first deputy on scene prior to arrival of fire crews, entered the residence to assist an elderly resident who was attempting to locate pets. Ashley arrived a short time later to assist and deputies remove woman and pets from the structure, “ensuring everyone made it out safely.” Kim remained with the family, providing updates and ensuring their safety during the emergency response.
“These deputies demonstrated exactly what it means to serve and protect. Their actions that morning went above and beyond the call of duty,” said Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliott. We are incredibly proud of the deputies for their courage, professionalism and compassion. Our thoughts remain with the family affected by this fire, and we hope for their continued recovery during this difficult time.”
The sheriff’s office also thanked the Coweta Fire Department for their “swift response and brave efforts, which helped save much of the residence. We recognize all first responders who worked together during this emergency.” The department did not state the cause of the fire.
D. C. Harris says
The story above mentioned “above and beyond”. That it was, as well as revolutionary, unprecedented, and “wild blue yonder” of performance. Thank you — all of you !!