By Associated Press - Tuesday, October 11, 2016

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) - Firefighters are crediting an 11-year-old Memphis boy with saving his family from a fire that broke out at their apartment.

Memphis Fire Lt. Wayne Cooke told WREG-TV that the boy heard the smoke detector going off about 1 a.m. and woke up the other seven members of his family. Cooke said the boy likely saved their lives.

When fire crews arrived at Ten Mile Creek Apartments a few minutes after the call came in, flames were coming through the roof. By then, everyone was out and no injuries were reported.

People were interested in these podcasts

Cooke says firefighters consider the boy a hero for his efforts.

WMC-TV reports the Red Cross is helping the family.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Copyright © 2026 The Washington Times, LLC.

Story Topics

Please read our comment policy before commenting.