Early this morning, three Texarkana police officers are being celebrated for their heroic actions after saving a special needs resident trapped inside a burning home.
Around 12:30 a.m., Officers Kevin Buck, Kevin Cornelius, and Ty Ford responded to a house fire on Knotty Pine. Upon arrival, neighbors frantically informed them that a special needs resident was confined to a bedroom at the back of the house and unable to get out of bed.
With thick smoke quickly filling the home and firefighters still en route, the officers made a split-second decision to go in. Braving the dangerous conditions, they navigated through the smoke-filled house to the resident’s room. Unable to exit through the front, the officers worked together to get the resident out safely through a window.
Paramedics treated all three officers on the scene for minor smoke inhalation, but remarkably, they were able to finish their shifts. The resident, whose name has not been released, is also reported to be safe thanks to their courageous actions.
Chief Kevin Schutte praised the officers, saying, “I am so proud of the heroism of these three officers and their commitment to service above self. Their quick thinking and selfless actions saved this person’s life. Once again, our officers have demonstrated ONE TEAM, ‘Exhibiting Excellence Every Day.’”
Texarkana is expressing gratitude to these everyday heroes who put their lives on the line to save others. Thank you, Officers Buck, Cornelius, and Ford!
