HEROIC ACTIONS RECOGNIZED IN WHITE HALL

WHITE HALL — Multiple lives were saved thanks to the quick actions of local residents, police officers, and firefighters during an apartment fire in White Hall last fall, and those involved were formally recognized for their bravery during a meeting held this evening.

The fire broke out around 8 a.m. on October 6, 2025, at a four-unit apartment complex, sending heavy smoke from one of the units. Robert and Tonya Moffitt, who were arriving for work at the property, immediately noticed the smoke and rushed toward the building, knocking on doors and windows to alert anyone inside.

Authorities later learned a resident had been asleep inside the burning unit and was awakened just in time to escape as conditions rapidly worsened.

As emergency crews arrived, White Hall Police Officer Neil McPherson and Roodhouse Police Officer Jeremy Gwartney were informed that a woman attempting to escape had collapsed inside due to smoke. Both officers entered the apartment and carried her out to safety.

Firefighters with the White Hall Fire Department responded shortly after. During a final sweep of the building, Firefighter Brad Costello was overcome by smoke and issued a “firefighter down” call. Adam Moffitt entered the structure and helped remove Costello, who was later hospitalized for smoke inhalation.

Thanks to the combined efforts of civilians and first responders, all occupants of the building were safely evacuated.

During a meeting this evening, Robert and Tonya Moffitt, Officer Neil McPherson, Officer Jeremy Gwartney, Firefighter Brad Costello, and Adam Moffitt were each honored for their bravery and presented with plaques in recognition of their actions. Some of those recognized were not in attendance.