A 12-year-old Virginia boy is being hailed for his heroics after he saved his grandmother and infant siblings when fire swept through their residence.
In a statement, the Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services said the June 3 incident occurred at home on 2001 Burks Street.
“Our hearts go out to the family affected, and we lift them in prayer during this difficult time,” the statement said. “But within this moment of fear and destruction, a powerful story of courage rose from the smoke one that deserves to be told.”
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Ramir Parker, 12, was lauded for jumping into action when the fire engulfed the home. Before the fire started, Ramir was said to be talking to his grandmother upstairs while his infant siblings, aged 1 and 2, were downstairs.
“Ramir was upstairs talking with his grandmother when he heard a strange crackling and rattling sound, growing louder by the second. At first, he thought his baby brothers—just 1 and 2 years old..had woken up from their naps downstairs in the living room,” the statement said. “But as he stepped into the hallway, he saw it: thick, black smoke rising from the basement. That’s when instinct took over.”
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Ramir is said to have yelled “Fire!” and notified his grandmother, who “immediately asked about the babies.” Ramir subsequently made his way through the “smoke-filled living room, scooped up both of his little brothers, and led everyone out of the house.”
“As glass shattered and the heat intensified, this young boy kept his composure and got his family to safety, Before our units arrived,” the statement added. “Ramir saved lives today. His quick thinking and selfless bravery are nothing short of heroic. In a moment where seconds mattered, he stepped up just like a firefighter would. Just like a protector does.
Ramir, we see you. We salute you. You showed the heart of a fireman today and the soul of a warrior.”
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