Port St. Joe, Florida — A tragic apartment fire in Florida has left a family mourning the loss of a father while celebrating the survival of his two young children, who were rescued from a smoke-filled home by first responders.
Authorities say the deadly blaze broke out early on May 30 at the Pine Ridge Apartments in Gulf County and was caused by a pot of oil left heating on a stove.
First Responders Encounter Heavy Smoke
According to the Port St. Joe Police Department, officers arrived at the apartment complex to find thick smoke pouring from the residence.
As emergency crews rushed to investigate, they discovered one child near the rear door of the apartment. Officials said the child was “barely breathing” when rescuers found them.
Officers quickly carried the child outside and immediately began administering emergency medical care. Despite the dangerous conditions inside the apartment, first responders returned to the building in search of additional victims.
Rescue Efforts Continue Inside Apartment
Authorities described the interior conditions as extremely hazardous. Police said rescuers entered the apartment despite “floor-to-ceiling smoke with zero visibility.”
During the search, crews located a second child and an adult later identified as 34-year-old Walter Bowers III, the father of the children. All three victims were transported to local hospitals in critical condition.
The rescue effort has since been praised by community members, many of whom credited first responders with saving the lives of the children.
Children Recover While Father Succumbs to Injuries
The day after the fire, authorities provided a hopeful update regarding the children, who were described as approximately 5 and 10 years old.
Police said the children were “recovering so fast” and were “awake and playing.”
Sadly, Bowers did not survive his injuries. According to a statement shared by police on behalf of his family, he passed away on June 1. The family described him as someone deeply loved by those around him.
“A beloved son, father, brother, grandson, nephew, brother-in-law, and friend whose love, strength, and presence touched countless lives.”
They also asked for continued support as the family copes with the tragedy.
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“As we continue to support his children through this unimaginable loss, we ask that you keep them and our entire family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Fire Believed to Have Started While Preparing Wings
According to Port St. Joe Police Chief Jake Richards, investigators determined the fire originated from a pot of oil left on the stove.
Officials believe Bowers was preparing to cook chicken wings when the accident occurred. Authorities said it appeared he had fallen asleep before beginning the cooking process, allowing the oil to overheat and ignite.
The tragedy serves as a reminder of how quickly unattended cooking can become deadly.
Community Remembers Beloved Father
Bowers’ mother, Tammy, said she finds comfort knowing her grandchildren survived.
“My son did unfortunately pass away, but my two grandchildren — who were also involved in this tragedy — on the bright side are healthy and happy,” she said.
The loss has also affected many within the local community. Two of the first responders who helped rescue the children were former classmates of Bowers.
“It’s hard ’cause I look back and think about how we used to sit next to each other in high school. It’s a heavy hit,” Port St. Joe police officer Caleb Kesterson said.
Friends remembered Bowers as a “class clown” with a big heart, while a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support his children and family during this difficult time.
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