BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. – Four people escaped from a burning home early Sunday morning thanks to the quick actions of one of the occupants of the home. Bulloch County 911 dispatched a multi-agency response to the 2300 block of Bennett Grooms Road, near Leefield, at 12:55 a.m. on January 12, 2025, after receiving a call from a resident of the home who noticed the house was on fire.
Bulloch County Fire, Statesboro Fire, Bulloch County EMS, and Bulloch County Sheriff's deputies responded to the scene. Upon arrival, it was confirmed that multiple people were still inside the residence at the time of the initial call. Remarkably, all four occupants had already been rescued by bystanders who rushed in to help. No injuries were reported.
The first engine on the scene reported heavy fire and smoke billowing from the roof of the home, prompting a request for additional engines, firefighters, and tankers. Firefighters launched an aggressive interior attack to combat the blaze. Despite their efforts, the home sustained significant damage from fire, heat, and smoke.
In response to the fire, Tyrone Willis of the Statesboro Fire CAFE team and Pat Jones with Bulloch Fire responded to the scene and reached out to several local organizations to provide support to the displaced family. The American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT), Bulloch VOAD - Bulloch Strong, the Statesboro Food Bank, and Fostering Bulloch Hope Chest have all stepped up to assist with temporary housing, food, and other essential needs. Citizens who want to help the family are encouraged to work through local agencies like Fostering Bulloch Hope Chest initially.
Agencies are scheduled to meet with the family on Sunday to compile a detailed list of their immediate needs. This story will be updated once that information is released.
As fire investigators continue their routine investigation to determine the cause of the blaze, Chief Joe Carter reminded residents of the importance of fire safety. “With cold weather upon us, it’s a good time to check your smoke alarms and make sure they are working properly,” he said.
The quick response from local firefighters and resident helped prevent what could have been a much worse tragedy, but the loss of the home is still a devastating blow to the affected family. Local agencies continue to rally together to assist the family during this difficult time.