Bartholomew County Report


On October 15, 2022, deputies from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, as well as officers from the Columbus Police Department, were in the downtown area on an unrelated investigation when a female approached Deputy Billy Bryant and Deputy Nicholi Burkholder.
The female advised the deputies that her neighbor’s house was possibly on fire as she had heard the smoke alarms going off for around 20 minutes. She also advised that she believed people were still inside the residence.
Deputies responded to the 800 block of Union Street where they located smoke coming from a residence. They attempted contact, but no one answered the door. Deputies forced entry into the smoke-filled residence where they located a male inside who was confused and not able to exit on his own. Deputy Bryant and Deputy Burkholder evacuated the male where he was taken to Columbus Regional Hospital for evaluation of minor injuries.
CPD Officer Hilderbrand arrived with a fire extinguisher and was able to put out a small fire that was in the kitchen. Other responding units evacuated six other residents on the rear side of the structure.
The Columbus Fire Department arrived shortly after and completely extinguished the fire and ventilated the structure due to heavy smoke.
“This is an example of the pinnacle of public service, courageous action that ends up saving someone’s life,” said Sheriff Matt Myers. “I would like to recognize and thank these deputies for their actions and service to the community.”

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