A New Bedford Man is Dubbed a Hero After Saving Four Neighbors from Blazing House Fire

An investigation is underway by the New Bedford Fire Department after a fire broke out at a home in the city early Wednesday morning.

The incident occurred on DeWolf Street around 1 a.m. when firefighters responded to a call from a vigilant neighbor, Mitchell Jackson.

Jackson’s dog had been whining to go out, so Jackson grabbed his cigarettes and stepped outside with his pet. From a distance of about five houses down and across the street, he noticed what he initially thought was a tiki torch to keep mosquitoes away. However, the flames intensified. Jackson called for help immediately.

“I heard a young boy screaming and that’s when I realized people were inside,” Jackson said.

Without hesitation, he began pounding on the front door. Although the house initially appeared abandoned, Jackson soon discovered four people trapped inside: two women and two young children.

“I started running around the neighbors' houses and backyards looking for hoses but couldn’t find anything,” Jackson said.

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Despite the chaos, he managed to stay with one of the terrified children, offering comfort amid the turmoil.

“I sat with one of the kids for a little bit. I felt so bad, they were crying bad,” he said.

According to Jackson, the fire may have been ignited by a lit cigarette on top of a bookshelf.

The response from the police and fire departments was swift. No injuries were reported, although the front of the home sustained heavy damage. The street has since reopened to the public.

Jackson’s quick thinking and brave actions undoubtedly saved lives, making him a true hero in New Bedford.