Oxford, United States - August 18, 2024

In a daring rescue operation, Beacon Hose firefighters saved 19 individuals and a dog from rising floodwaters at the Brookside Inn Restaurant in Oxford and a nearby residence. The dramatic events unfolded Sunday evening as emergency crews responded to escalating calls for help amidst severe flooding.

Initially dispatched to attend medical emergencies in Seymour and Oxford, Beacon Hose Ambulances were forced to divert their attention due to impassable roads. This redirection led BH-8 to stage near Brookside, where floodwaters were rapidly encroaching, threatening the safety of those inside the restaurant.

With local fire crews stretched thin across Oxford, Beacon Hose swiftly coordinated with Oxford fire officials to initiate a rescue operation. Truck 6 and Rescue 4, equipped with Beacon Hose's specialized operations trailer, were deployed to the scene. Firefighters Cal Brennan, Christian Hotchkiss, and their team executed multiple daring rescues, including breaching windows and using Truck 6's aerial ladder to evacuate individuals stranded on upper floors.

The operation, led by Incident Commander Jeremy Rodorigo and Operations Manager Cal Brennan, concluded successfully by 7:30 p.m., ensuring all 19 rescued individuals and the dog were safely evacuated. Despite the challenges posed by a dislodged propane tank and hazardous floodwaters, no injuries were reported during the rescue efforts.