10/09/2026
**HALIFAX COUNTY DEPUTY SAVES ELDERLY MAN FROM BURNING HOME**
Sergeant Alex Wood, a true hero, is being recognized for his courageous actions and life-saving response.
HALIFAX COUNTY, N.C. — Sheriff Tyree Davis commends Sergeant Alex Wood for his extraordinary courage and decisive actions in rescuing an elderly man from a burning residence on the evening of October 8, 2026.
At approximately 9:25 p.m., the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office was notification of a residential fire in the 100 block of Haywood Drive in Roanoke Rapids. The 911 caller lived next door and reported that a family member was alone inside the home and had not escaped the rapidly developing house fire.
Sergeant Wood promptly responded to the scene, where he encountered a residence actively engulfed in flames. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he immediately advised responding fire personnel about the situation.
The female on the scene was screaming and hollering that her dad was still inside the house. Then, amid the smoke, flames, and imminent danger, and without hesitation, Sgt. Wood took decisive action.
Sergeant Wood ran to the burning trailer. Checked the front door and the door was locked. Sgt. Wood kicked in the front door to make entry into the residence. Smoke instantly overtook Sgt. Wood so he laid on the floor inside the house and started crawling inside the home calling out for the elderly male. The male heard Sgt. Wood’s voice and called back out to him. Sgt. Wood in complete smoke filled darkness located the male lying on the floor about 20 feet inside the burning home. Understanding that every second mattered, he immediately began the rescue and pulled the man out of the burning house. As they made it to the front porch Lieutenant E. Richardson arrived and joined Sergeant Wood, assisting in bringing the man to safety.
Sgt. Wood’s swift response, courage, and willingness to confront extreme danger helped bring a potentially tragic situation to a life-saving outcome.
The elderly male was transported to a local treatment facility where he is still being treated but in stable condition. Sgt. Wood was also treated by EMS at the scene of the fire and released.
Sheriff Davis proudly recognizes Sergeant Wood for his bravery, quick thinking, and unwavering commitment to protecting human life. Sheriff Davis also commends Lieutenant Richardson for his assistance and vital role in the rescue.
This incident is a powerful reminder of the courage and selflessness demonstrated by the men and women who serve in law enforcement. When faced with a life-threatening emergency, these deputies acted with determination and a profound sense of duty, placing the safety of another person at the forefront despite the danger to themselves.
The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office remains proud of its deputies, whose dedication to public service extends beyond their daily responsibilities. Their actions exemplify the highest ideals of law enforcement: courage in the face of danger, compassion for those in need, and an unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the citizens of Halifax County.
When seconds mattered and danger stood in his path, Sgt. Wood answered the call. His actions reflect the true meaning of service, sacrifice, and heroism.
