MAYPORT, Fla. – It was a frantic scramble to save a family of six, including a toddler who was stuck in a bedroom during a Mayport mobile home fire early Friday morning.
A 17-year-old boy, a neighbor and firefighters are being recognized for their heroic actions to help the family, whose home was destroyed in the blaze.
Austin Bounds was sleeping in his home next door at the time of the fire. He woke up and rushed to help.
“The oldest son, a 17-year-old -- Luke -- he was the hero,” Bounds said. “He got most of the kids out of the house. He kept running in and I chase him in about two to three times.”
There were four children and two adults in the home. A 2-year-old girl -- stuck in the back bedroom. A horrifying thought as flames tore through.
Jacksonville firefighters got to the young girl just in time. Witnesses said she was motionless and covered in soot.
“They handed the child off to the rescue unit, the rescue unit gets out of here fast and works on child on the way to the hospital,” said Capt. Eric Prosswimmer with JFRD. “It makes a difference.”
The girl is in the hospital, and she is said to be responsive. Her brother, Luke, was being treated for smoke inhalation. The father was said to have serious injuries.
“My son is a hero. My son, Luke, he is the reason that we all got out,” said Selina Lugo, the teen’s mother. “I am proud of him, and I am just so thankful to God that he was there.”
Neighbors who helped during the fire are also helping after the fire by collecting supplies and donations. People who would like to donate can send an email to Beth Bounds or drop items off at 1014 Paradise Lane.
Clothing sizes include:
- Teen boy: Size 14-16 slim
- Girls: Size 10 slim
- Boys: Size 3T
- Girls: Size 2T
- Girls: Size 9/12 mos
- Boys: Shoes size 8 or 9
- Girls: Shoes size 3/4
- Toddler: Boys size 7
- Toddler: Girls size 5
- Dad: Large, 34/36
- Mom: Medium
The American Red Cross is providing temporarily relief for the family. The cause of the fire is under investigation.