Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Deputies Rescue Elderly Couple From Burning Home

DAHLONEGA — Two Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office deputies are being hailed as heroes today after they rescued two elderly residents whose home on Rider Road Spur caught fire late Sunday evening.

Sgt. Cory Gearin and Deputy Myron Ward were the first to respond when Lumpkin County Dispatch received a call that a residence was on fire and two elderly people were believed to be inside.

Gearin and Ward responded immediately and arrived at the scene at approximately 11:45 pm. They observed smoke coming from the residence and rushed inside to find John and Bernice Rider and lead them out of the burning home.

They quickly searched the home to ensure there were no other occupants then grabbed fire extinguishers from their patrol vehicles and attempted to extinguish the fire in the main bedroom. Once the Fire Department arrived the officers turned the scene over to them.

Neither of the occupants suffered any injuries but both officers were transported by EMS to Chestatee Regional Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

Sheriff’s Office spokesman Lt. Chris Pfrogner said, “We are very proud of the selfless actions exhibited by Sgt. Gearin and Deputy Ward. Both officers placed the value of helping the occupants of the house over their own safety. This level of selflessness and dedication to serve and protect the citizens of Lumpkin County is a credit to themselves and Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office.”