Chatham County’s public safety agencies worked in close coordination during a two-alarm structure fire on April 12, demonstrating a unified and effective emergency response that resulted in multiple life-saving rescues.

At approximately 3:55 a.m., Chatham County Fire Department units were dispatched to the 1000 block of King George Boulevard following reports of a structure fire. Fire crews arrived within minutes to find heavy fire conditions and quickly initiated suppression and rescue operations. A second alarm was requested shortly after arrival to support ongoing efforts.

Chatham County Police Department officers were first on scene and immediately began evacuating residents. Officers Brandon Lowe and Thomas Velte assisted two children to safety after they were dropped from an upper-floor balcony by their mother to escape advancing flames.

As additional fire units arrived, crews deployed ladders and conducted targeted rescue operations under extreme conditions. Firefighters, including Captain John-William Farrell and firefighter Christopher Carter, rescued additional residents from the structure as suppression efforts intensified.

Fire and police personnel worked in tandem to contain the fire and ensure all occupants were accounted for. Despite a partial building collapse reported during the incident, all responding personnel were confirmed safe. The fire was brought under control later that morning, and all units within the affected structure were searched.

In total, five individuals were rescued, including two children who were transported to Memorial University Medical Center for treatment of smoke inhalation. The Red Cross is assisting displaced residents, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The response highlights the strong collaboration between Chatham County’s public safety departments and their shared commitment to protecting the community. Officials also recognized the dedication of first responders, noting that involved personnel returned to duty shortly after the incident, reflecting the ongoing readiness and resilience required in emergency services.

Chatham County Police Chief Jeff Hadley praised the collaborative effort.

"It's important to recognize the challenges faced by Fire and Police personnel when confronting a large-scale Fire event where all units respond," Hadley said. "Thankfully, we were able to assist CCFD as they readied their staff for the multitude of tasks they needed to accomplish. CCPD works extremely well with CCFD and we all go about our work in the way that best serves the citizens and makes the environment as safe as possible. We are thankful no citizens or Public Safety personnel were seriously injured."