Kearney Officers Rescue Man From Fire

KPD Corporal Garton

On March 4, the Kearney Fire Department was summoned to assist with two major grass fires. One of the fires was on Stark Road west of Kearney and numerous fire departments were required to respond. The fire was responsible for a large loss of property, including several vehicles.

As firefighters were battling that fire, another large grass fire was raging on the east side of the city near 164th Street and Marcrest. This fire was endangering a residence and vehicles. Units from the Kearney Fire Department and numerous other fire departments were called to battle that fire as well.

KPD Officer Carpenter

At the time, no county deputies were available for traffic control in the area and Kearney Police Officers were requested and responded to the scene.

As Corporal JD Garton, Officer Julie Carpenter and Chief Carey of the Kearney Police Department arrived at the scene, Corporal Garton observed an individual fighting the out of control fire in a field east of his location. The flames grew and trapped the man against a barbed wire fence preventing him from escaping. Corporal Garton was able to maneuver into position and grab the man by his shoulders. He then lifted the trapped man to safety where he and Officer Carpenter rendered aid. The man was suffering from extreme burns and was transported to the hospital by ambulance for treatment. Corporal Garton and Officer Carpenter were uninjured during the rescue.

KPGZ News – Jim Dickerson contributed to this story