Pets Rescued, 2 Residents Displaced

Galax Fire Department was alerted at 2031 on June 15, 2023, for a reported structure fire on Boxwood Lane. Arriving units found a single-wide mobile home with smoke and fire out the left side. The occupants were outside but indicated fourpets were trapped. Command sent two in to search, two in forextinguishment and two out forRIT. Three of the fourcats were quickly removed and given O2 by Pipers Gap Rescue Squad and GFD EMTs. The fourth cat was discovered in the fire room and did not survive. Overhaul ensued foran additional 45 minutes. At this point it was discovered that this family is part of ourfirst responderfamily as the newest officerforthe Galax Police Department, graduating from the academy earlierin the day. The two adults were displaced and lost many of theirbelongings. They are being assisted by the American Red Cross and local family. - Photos courtesy of Galax FD