Officer Saves 91-Year-Old's Chihuahua From House Fire

When Constable Kieren Trannore arrived at a burning home in Blackbutt North, Queensland, he knew someone was still inside. That someone turned out to be Candice, a feisty Chihuahua who wasn't exactly thrilled about being rescued.

The officer climbed over a railing onto the verandah of the blazing home, 170 kilometres northwest of Brisbane, while the building was still on fire. Body-worn camera footage captured the tense moments as he chased down the stubborn dog, who kept trying to run back toward the flames.

"I couldn't do anything to win it over, so eventually just grabbed the jumper and picked it up and put it over the railing and into the owner's arms, which was nice," Constable Trannore said. The "snarky" Chihuahua had other ideas about her rescue, making the save more challenging than expected.

The 91-year-old homeowner lost his house and all his belongings in the June 2 fire. After the initial shock wore off, he was grateful to still have his companion by his side.

"I think it's all he had. He seemed to love her a lot," the officer said. Despite the devastating loss, no one was seriously injured.

Sunny's Take

Candice eventually warmed up to her rescuer. The older Chihuahua, full of attitude just moments before, came up to sniff Constable Trannore's legs after they were safely away from the fire.

For the officer, moments like these remind him why he chose this career. "A lot more of that community-style policing that you don't get in other places, you still get those rewarding feelings when you actually help people," he said.

The Queensland Police commended Constable Trannore for his quick thinking and bravery. Authorities confirmed the fire is not being treated as suspicious.

Sometimes the smallest acts of courage mean the world to someone who's lost everything else.