FOND DU LAC (NBC 26) -- The Fond du Lac Fire Chief is calling a passerby a hero for helping save someone from a house fire.
According to Fond du Lac Fire Rescue, a passing motorist banged on the door of a house that was on fire. Fire officials said the person inside the home was asleep and was able to escape after being awoken by the knocking.
Firefighters with Fond du Lac Fire Rescue was dispatched to 22 7th St. for a reported house on fire at about 12:20 p.m. Thursday. Upon arrival, fire officials say crews encountered heavy fire extending out of two second floor windows. The person who was inside the home was able to get out safely.
“The citizen who stopped and alerted the first floor resident of the fire is a hero” said Fire Chief Peter O’Leary. “His selfless actions undoubtedly changed the outcome for the resident inside.”
The fire was quickly extinguished but not before a dog was discovered inside not breathing. Firefighters tried to revive the dog, but were unsuccessful. Fire officials also say a cat is still unaccounted for.
The cause of the fire is under investigation and the home is uninhabitable.
