A Texas family of four faced disaster when fire engulfed their apartment early Sunday morning, but thankfully, they were spared the greatest loss—losing their 2-year-old child. Local firefighters and emergency medical teams leaped heroically to the rescue, and their actions have since drawn overwhelming praise from the community.
At around 12:50 a.m. on November 10, Hood County 911 dispatched firefighters to the 300 block of Parkwood in Granbury, Texas, following reports of a fire. The situation was urgent; dispatchers informed on-scene teams of a child trapped inside the blazing building.
“We got a 2-year-old on the second floor,” one firefighter was heard saying during the chaotic moments. Another quickly noted, “He’s screaming, he’s crying; that's good,” indicating the child was alive and had not succumbed to the smoke.
Granbury Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD) Captain Bradley Snyder stated the second-story apartment was fully engulfed, necessitating immediate action. Firefighters split their efforts—some fought the flames, others made the risky climb to rescue the child.
Firefighter Brian Serratelli maneuvered the ladder up to the burning apartment’s window, and North Hood County Fire Department Lieutenant Jonathan Head quickly entered the home through the broken glass. After what felt like eternity to the anxious bystanders, he successfully located the toddler and brought him to safety.
Once out of the apartment, the boy was passed off to Texas EMS, who then transported him via helicopter to a Fort Worth hospital for carbon monoxide treatment. Thankfully, reports indicated he was doing well after the terrifying ordeal.
Those moments of chaos were echoed by Phylicia Keen, the toddler’s mother. She shared her relief, saying, "First responders are actual heroes. For real angels and heroes ... Every single one of them.” Keen had already managed to save her 4-year-old son before the firefighters arrived, but when she attempted to reach her younger boy, she was overcome by thick smoke.
Images from the scene showed firefighters working tirelessly to extinguish the fire, which had destroyed much of the family’s belongings but, more gravely, nearly took the life of the young boy. The emergency response included not only the GVFD but also firefighters from local agencies such as Tolar and Indian Harbor Fire Departments.
Keen’s emotional gratitude to the rescuers shone through, and she highlighted the community’s appreciation for its volunteer firefighters who routinely train for such emergencies. Capt. Snyder remarked on the department's training, stating, “Everyone involved had one thing on their mind—‘Get to the child.’ This was a prime example of what we train for.”
Firefighter Jonathan Head, one of the pivotal figures on scene, credited divine protection during the rescue. “When we hear ‘there is someone trapped,’ we know every passing second means the difference between life and death,” he said, expressing his commitment to the dangerous line of work.
Locals were reminded of the importance of having functional fire alarms and sprinkler systems. According to Snyder, both systems were operational during the incident and played invaluable roles in the rescue process. Their importance cannot be overstated, as these systems are fundamental to preventing disaster from worsening.
Meanwhile, Granbury community members remain on high alert. With the fire under investigation, residents are reminded of the risks posed by rapid fires and the importance of fire safety precautions. It is not just the firefighters but local agencies and organizations who step up during such crises.
A GoFundMe page has been created to help the Keen family recover, raising almost $5,000 to support medical bills and immediate needs following the fire. Community support is pouring in, demonstrating how many are willing to rally for those affected by tragedy.
The incredible timeliness and bravery of the firefighting teams reinforced the community’s bond and respect for those who risk their lives for others. A quick-thinking mother and dedicated first responders turned what could have been unimaginable tragedy—losing her young son—into their triumph. It’s the kind of story we need to hear more of, reminding us of the courage within our communities.
The fire investigation continues, with Granbury Fire Marshal Kevin Jones leading the efforts to determine the cause of the blaze.
For now, the community can breathe easier knowing its young hero is safe, thanks to the tireless work of volunteers who remain prepared for emergencies, underscoring the value of training and readiness during crises. The neighborhood can also take heart knowing they have champions standing watch, prepared to face challenges head-on.
