In the wake of the Oklahoma wildfires, a youth wrestling coach and father, Allen Ferguson, carried his 15-year-old son through the fire to safety. Both of them were transported to a local hospital. Sadly, the hero dad passed away on Saturday, March 15, after suffering severe burns. His son remains in critical condition.
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According to a family friend, Shane Earp, who talked with ABC News, Allen Ferguson carried his 15-year-old son, Will Conley, through the fire engulfing Chandler, Oklahoma. Both of them were found by rescuers and were transported to a hospital. Ferguson kept talking to his son while in the ambulance. However, Ferguson tragically succumbed to his injuries, having suffered severe burns while carrying his son.
Earp described Ferguson, a father of four, as a "great man all around."
"Whether it be fishing, metal detecting, sports, making art out of anything, Civil War reenactment and many other things, if his family was interested in it, he would find a way to learn it and make it happen," Earp told the outlet. "Always had jokes and funny comments so you must be ready to laugh when around him."
Reaction
As per ABC News, four people died in the Oklahoma wildfires, including Allen Ferguson. More than 400 homes and structures have been damaged by the fire. Rep. Jim Shaw addressed the wildfires as well as Allen Ferguson's heroic sacrifice.
"The wildfires that tore through our communities last week have left a trail of destruction and heartbreak. My heart goes out to all those affected, including the Ferguson family, who suffered an unimaginable loss," Shaw wrote.
"Allen Ferguson, a beloved youth wrestling coach in Chandler, tragically lost his life while trying to save his son, Will, who remains in critical condition. Allen was a hero, and his dedication to his family and our community will never be forgotten."
Rep. Shaw then thanked all the first responders, firefighters, and volunteers. To him, the fact that Chandler neighbors came together during the wildfires has shown "the resilience and generosity" of their community.
"My prayers are with all those who have lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones," Shaw added. In the face of such devastation, our community's strength and compassion continues to shine. We will stand together to support those in need as we begin the long road to recovery."
