Meridian first responders recognized for heroism

Published 9:17 am Wednesday, February 18, 2026

A group of Meridian Fire Department first responders were recognized Tuesday by city leadership for their actions responding to a December fire that saved a woman’s life.

Fire Chief Michael Evans said Engine Three responded to a stove fire in the 100 block of 56th Avenue on Dec. 11. Only light smoke was reported at first, but by the battalion chief arrived on scene almost every room had flames. Bars on the windows of the house prevented anyone from escaping, he said.

Engine one, along with Rescue and an MFD paramedic, arrived on scene shortly after and began helping out, Evans said. While firefighters search for victims as standard procedure, he said,  first responders were also told someone may be inside.

After a search, firefighters located the woman in the bathroom, which was the only room in the house not on fire, Evans said. Despite the lack of flames, the room was filled with smoke and firefighters reached the woman with little time to spare.

“She had probably less than one minute before she would’ve succumbed to her injuries,” he said.

Evans, who took over as fire chief in December 2023, said this is the second time he has been able to recognize members of his department for lifesaving actions since his tenure began. Part of that is because Meridian Fire Department stands apart from other firefighting agencies in Mississippi in both training and response times, he said.

“You can’t save anyone from a fire unless you get out of the station in a timely manner and get on scene,” he said.

Also recognizing the first responders Tuesday were members of Trinity Lutheran Church. Karen Miller said the church has a ministry called Hearts of Mercy and Compassion where church members give out hearts following big events. Sometimes those events are sad, such as mass shootings, while hearts are also given out for celebratory occasions such as retirements and baptisms.

“And that is why I’m so happy today to be able to give this to you guys because this is such a wonderful thing, and we’re so happy for it,” she said.

Miller said her church, and many other churches in Meridian, pray for the city’s first responders and their safety as they respond to emergencies throughout the city.

Those recognized include:

Engine Three

— James Gentry

— David Barefield

— Sam Kidd

Engine One

— Charles Gaines

— Ben Owe

— Lee Bohls

Rescue One

— Brian McAlister

— Casandra Gowdy

— Justin Russell

Medic Unit & Command Staff

— Kirsten Blackledge

— Battalion Chief Kenny Robinson

— Hayes Nance

— Blake Douzatt

— Sean Robinson