Neighbor Saves 4-Year-Old from Burning Virginia Home

Brad Polack was driving through his Varina, Virginia neighborhood Thursday afternoon when he noticed black smoke pouring from a house on Strath Road. He immediately dialed 911, then ran down the driveway where he found a 4-year-old boy who had just escaped the burning home.

The quick-thinking neighbor scooped up the child and kept him from running back inside. The boy had covered his face with his shirt to escape the smoke and was desperately asking for a fire extinguisher to help his grandfather.

When the boy told Polack his grandfather Charles Chavis was still trapped inside, Polack immediately shared that critical information with arriving firefighters. They rushed in and found Chavis face down and unconscious, trying to crawl to safety.

Chavis, who had suffered a stroke three years ago that limited his mobility, was rescued with third-degree burns on his back. He remains in critical condition but showed positive signs Friday morning, blinking his eyes in response to his daughter and friends.

The fire destroyed the home where the Chavis family had lived for nearly 60 years. Brandi Chavis, 40, lost her childhood home, and her father had lived there since he was 13 years old.

Sunny's Take

In the midst of devastating loss, this story reminds us what community really means. Brad Polack didn't hesitate when he saw someone needed help. He ran toward danger, protected a frightened child, and gave firefighters the information they needed to save a life.

The Chavis family lost their home and all their belongings, and they don't have homeowners insurance. But neighbor Sharon Broaddus, who visited Charles in the hospital, speaks for the whole community when she says she believes in miracles.

The American Red Cross provided $600 in emergency assistance and offered hotel stays. Friends in nearby Lakeside opened their home to the displaced family. A GoFundMe campaign is helping with mounting medical bills and recovery costs.

Sometimes the brightest moments shine through the darkest smoke.