A Halifax County Sheriff’s Office sergeant is being recognized for rescuing a man trapped inside a burning mobile home Thursday evening.

Sergeant Alex Wood responded to a call in the 100 block of Haywood Drive in the Roanoke Rapids area shortly before 9:30 p.m.

The 911 caller, who lives next door, said a family member was alone inside the residence and had not escaped, Sheriff Tyree Davis said.

The mobile home was engulfed, and Wood advised arriving firefighters about the situation.

A woman at the scene was crying that her father was still inside.

That was when Wood, “amid the smoke, flames, and imminent danger,” took action, running to the burning structure only to find the door locked, Davis said.

The sergeant kicked in the door, dropped to the floor, and crawled through the house calling for the victim. The man responded, and Wood found him lying on the floor in complete darkness about 20 feet away.

“Understanding that every second mattered, he immediately began the rescue and pulled the man out of the burning house,” Davis said. “As they made it to the front porch, Lieutenant E. Richardson arrived and joined Sergeant Wood, assisting in bringing the man to safety.”

The sheriff said Wood’s swift response, courage, and willingness to confront extreme danger helped turn a potentially tragic situation into a life-saving outcome.

The victim was transported to a local medical facility, where he is in stable condition and continues to receive treatment. Wood was treated by EMS at the scene and released.

“I proudly recognize Sergeant Wood for his bravery, quick thinking, and unwavering commitment to protecting human life,” Davis said, while also commending Richardson for his vital assistance in the rescue. “This incident is a powerful reminder of the courage and selflessness demonstrated by the men and women who serve in law enforcement. When faced with a life-threatening emergency, these deputies acted with determination and a profound sense of duty, placing the safety of another person at the forefront despite the danger to themselves.”

The sheriff added: “The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office remains proud of its deputies, whose dedication to public service extends beyond their daily responsibilities. Their actions exemplify the highest ideals of law enforcement: courage in the face of danger, compassion for those in need, and an unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the citizens of Halifax County. When seconds mattered and danger stood in his path, Sergeant Wood answered the call. His actions reflect the true meaning of service, sacrifice, and heroism.”