Neighbor Helps Rescue Elderly Tulsa Man From House Fire

An elderly man and his daughter were rushed to the hospital Tuesday afternoon after a house fire in the 5900 block of East 24th Street.

Firefighters said the fire started at the back of the house and set off the smoke alarm.

David Nichols, who lives across the street, told News On 6 an elderly couple had recently moved back into the house after a year spent in an assisted living facility, and their 60-year-old daughter was staying with them as their caregiver.

Nichols said he heard the women outside and saw smoke coming from the roof, and came to help.

The neighbor said he ran into the house, which was already engulfed in smoke and didn't get far before he had to get out. Nichols said he then grabbed a sheet to put over his mouth and nose and went back into the house to help the 86-year-old man find his way out.

He said the man was walking with the assistance of a walker and was having trouble navigating the obstacles in the living room.

"I'm just greatful that he's a strong man, and he had the will to win, the will to get out of there. So, I'm real grateful for that, and I hope he and his wife are safe," Nichols said.

When asked if he had any training that helped him do what he did, Nichols said, "No, I just watch a lot of TV shows."

The elderly man and his daughter were taken to a local hospital. Both were in fair condition, EMSA says.