05/27/2026
In May of 2017, the Autryville Fire Department faced one of the most difficult moments in our history when a tornado tore through our community and destroyed our fire station. Severe storms moved through Sampson County on May 23, 2017, heavily damaging the department and forcing firefighters to operate from temporary facilities while rebuilding efforts took place.
What could have devastated our department instead became a turning point that showed the true strength of this community. In the hours and days after the storm, neighboring fire departments, local businesses, churches, families, and supporters from across the area stepped up to help our firefighters continue serving the citizens of Autryville and the surrounding community.
For more than a year, our firefighters operated from temporary trailers while continuing to answer calls and protect the community. Then in December 2018, the department officially moved into the new station at 305 N. Hotel Street — a moment that symbolized far more than a new building. It represented resilience, sacrifice, and a community that refused to let its fire department fail.
Since that tornado, the Autryville Fire Department has continued to grow in ways that once seemed impossible. Through grants, community support, fundraising efforts, and the dedication of our firefighters and leadership, we have expanded our capabilities to better protect our citizens and surrounding communities.
Over the years following the storm, the department added a Light Rescue Truck and continued building its Swiftwater Rescue capabilities. While obtaining Swiftwater certifications through the rescue association, the department became the Sampson County Swiftwater Team for surface water emergencies throughout the county. These additions represent more than equipment — they represent progress, resilience, and a commitment to never stop improving for the people we serve.
The growth of our department would not have happened without this community standing behind us. Every donation, every fundraiser attended, every sponsor, every word of encouragement, and every helping hand played a role in helping our department recover and continue moving forward.
The tornado may have damaged a building, but it never broke the spirit of this department or this community. If anything, it brought everyone even closer together and helped shape the Autryville Fire Department into what it is today.
From everyone at the Autryville Fire Department — thank you for believing in us, supporting us, and continuing to grow with us. We are proud to serve this community and excited for what the future holds.
