Woman seriously burned at Rustic Village Apartment fire
Police recognize man who saved many residents from the flames
from Chattanooga Fire Dept,.
CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – A morning fire at the Rustic Village North Apartments has left a woman in critical condition.
Firefighters got the call around 7:30 AM to the apartment complex off of Highway 58.
They evacuated building 12 as soon as they arrived and saw the flames.
They praised the efforts of Jimmy Franklin.
He called n the fire and then lifted an injured woman over her balcony to safety.
he then went back into the burning building to know on doors to make sure everyone else got out.
Chief Rick Boatwright, who carried out a child, himself, was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
The woman who suffered burns was airlifted to a burn center.
19 families have been displaced by the fire.
The cause is under investigation.
Fires are not that uncommon at these apartments.
They have had at least 3 over the last two years, including a summer fire in 2020 that sent 6 people to the hospital.
Mr. Jimmy Franklin was presented a Chief’s Challenge Coin today for his heroism and bravery. Franklin helped evacuate a woman from an apartment fire earlier this morning. The woman walked away with her life due to Mr. Franklin’s calm and courageous acts. We salute you sir!
