According to Wayne County Sheriff Tim Catron,
Deputy Jerry Meadows on December 22, 2025, at approximately 8:30 am, while patrolling in the Happy Top community of Wayne County observed flames coming from inside the elderly lady’s residence. Deputy Meadows immediately located her inside the residence and assisted her to safety. Deputy Meadows then removed a recently issued fire extinguisher from his cruiser and extinguished the fire which was caused by a faulty kerosene heater. Deputy Meadows then requested the Susie Fire Department for further assistance. Several units with the Susie Fire Department responded to the scene and ensured the fire was completely distinguished and posed any more threat. The elderly lady appeared not to have been injured and declined medical assistance and agreed she would stay with a neighbor.