Dougherty police officer rescues family from fire

ALBANY — An Albany family of four may owe their lives to a fast-acting Dougherty County police officer after their mobile home caught fire Thursday morning.

Officials say Dougherty County Police Department officer Byron Hill, 34, was on patrol around 2 a.m. when he caught sight of a fire on the porch of a mobile home at 515 Pine Bluff Road. Acting quickly, Hill pounded on the side of the residence to arouse the occupants of the mobile home. Within a minute or so, he heard voices calling for help from a bedroom window. Hill later said he was able to rip away the screen and help a 5-year old boy and two adults to safety.

Within minutes, units of the Albany Fire Department arrived at the scene, entered the mobile home and rescued a fourth person, an adult, officials say. According to the AFD, victims Richard Strandberg, Connel Strandberg, Richard Strandberg Jr, and the youngster, Steven Hatcher, were transported to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

“He’s certainly a hero,” said AFD Battalion Chief Rubin Jordon. “Those folks were probably fast asleep, and if not for (Hill’s) action, they may not have made it.”

Hill said he’s never considered himself a hero, but only that he was used by God to help save lives on Thursday.

“I’m grateful and humbled by the experience,” Hill said. “I just thank God for his grace and mercy.”