STURGIS, S.D. – Three Sturgis teens were given the prestigious Lifesaving Award at Monday night’s council meeting.
Ashley Bear, Kaylee Eixenberger and Abby Wise are credited for waking up the Owens family early on July 4th to inform them their house was on fire.
Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater says the three teens showed bravery and diligence in making sure the family got out.
“On July 4, at approximately 12:05 a.m. these three girls were on their way home from a friends house and noticed a fire outside the garage of the Owens residence. While Kaylee called 9-1-1, Abby and Ashley went to the residence and knocked on the front door. No one answered, and so they opened the door and yelled for anyone who was there. The family woke up and the girls told them they needed to get out because their house was on fire.”
VanDewater says had it not been for the swift action by the girls, the circumstances could have turned out differently.
Homeowner Chad Owens was present at the meeting and personally thanked the girls.
“Abby, Ashley, and Kaylee, on behalf of all the families involved, I would like to thank you for your courage and for doing the right thing. I know it must have been difficult and scary to open that door to go in, but by doing so, you saved some lives and we are proud of you.”
The early morning fire destroyed the Owens home.
