A concerned neighbor and a Douglas city police officer put their lives on the line on Saturday, March 5, when they rushed into a burning house in an attempt to save Sue Hutchinson, an elderly resident of the home who was trapped inside.
Shortly after midnight Saturday morning, the home at 1005 North Pearl Avenue caught fire. Neighbors Bobby and Cheryl Reynolds saw the fire and called 911. After placing the call, they went outside to help their neighbors, all of whom were elderly and one was confined to a wheelchair. Two of the residents, Neal and Marsha Pate, were safely out of the home. Sue Hutchinson, however, was still trapped inside.
Douglas police officer Eric Guerrero arrived and he entered the home in search of Hutchinson. He could not find her and, after being nearly overcome by smoke, exited the home. Cheryl Reynolds went in the house after Guerrero left. She stayed low and found Hutchinson. Together, the two made it outside to safety.
All three residents suffered injuries in the blaze. The Pates have been released from area hospitals, but Hutchinson remains in serious condition.
The family lost nearly everything and is need of the following items: Ladies — Pants, size 20-22 or 3XL; Shirts, size XL; Shoes, size 8 and 9. Men’s: Pants, size 32/32; Shirts, size large; shoes, size 9 ½. Children’s: Boys pants, size 8; Shirts, size 10-12; Shoes, size 2.5 and 3.
Anyone wishing to help should contact Larry Nesmith with the Red Cross at 912-393-4051 or the family at 912-592-4150.