Injured West Virginia Firefighter Returns Home

April 21, 2009
Dozens of fellow firefighters and community members gathered to welcome home Baker Heights volunteer firefighter Kenny Ayers.

BERKELEY COUNTY, W.Va. -- It was an emotional homecoming Monday night for a local firefighter who spent the past two weeks in the hospital.

Dozens of fellow firefighters and community members gathered to welcome home Baker Heights volunteer firefighter Kenny Ayers.

Ayers was injured on April 7th when he was battling a barn fire in Berkeley County.

Ayers was taken to Washington Hospital in Washington D.C. with numerous broken bones and severe burns.

Monday night his fellow firefighters carried him back to the fire station in the same engine he went out to the fire on -- so he could finish the call.

"It was breathtaking for all of us," said Baker Heights Asst. Fire Chief Travis Shroades. "I know it was for Kenny, and that's what we're all here for is to support him."

Firefighter Kenny Ayers said he's glad to be back home. "This is my family right here," said Ayers.

Bedington volunteer firefighter James Blackford is accused of setting the blaze that injured Ayers.

The Baker Heights fire department is holding a benefit concert for Kenny Ayers on May 9th at the Roadway Inn. The fundraiser will start at noon and the band will start playing at 2 p.m. Admission is $5.

Republished with permission of WHAG-TV.

Related Stories:

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!