Crews Replace Gifts Destroyed In Arson That Injured Tulsa Firefighter

A Tulsa firefighter who nearly died fighting a fire in North Tulsa on New Year's Eve continues to improve.

James O'Neal was moved out of ICU late Tuesday night, and his family hopes he'll be released soon. Friends at the firehouse really miss him.

"He's one of those individuals he'll make you laugh right on the spot. and he's fun to talk to sit down and have his company is something we've been missing the past week," said Tulsa Firefighter Justin Flake.

A breathing apparatus failed, and O'Neal collapsed after breathing smoke instead of air.

Along with putting a Tulsa firefighter in the hospital, the fire destroyed Christmas and birthday gifts for a little boy.

Firefighters wanted to make something positive out of an unfortunate situation, so the crew rounded up new toys to replace those lost in the fire.

Investigators believe the fire was arson. If you know who started the fire, call 918-596-2776.

The reward in the case is up to $4,000, after a New York City firefighter and September 11th survivor heard O'Neal's story, and added $500 to the reward fund.