Couple who lost home in a fire given a helping hand

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TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) — In April, a Toledo pair narrowly escaped a house fire due to prompt assistance from their neighbors. After being taken to the hospital for treatment following the incident, they came back to discover that all remaining possessions were missing.

Right now, that pair is receiving assistance from 13 Action News along with the Yark Automotive Group.

"If not for him and Jack, we'd still be up there waiting. Without them, I can't imagine what might have happened to us," Sheldon Overton stated.

Sheldon and Floria Overton are residing in a hotel following a blaze at their house on East Oakland Street in Toledo.

The pair were roused by a fiery odor, prompting Sheldon Overton to go down the stairs for an inspection.

"I opened the door, and suddenly this huge cloud of smoke hit my face. All we could do was rush upstairs," Sheldon Overton stated.

The pair attempted to flee via a window only to find themselves stuck on the rooftop. They shouted for assistance, and their neighbors promptly responded to the plea.

"I simply rushed to get my ladder, and he along with the other man assisted me. Once we descended, I passed them the equipment as I stood atop the ladder, ensuring they held it steady," explained one of the individuals who aided the Overtons.

When the third rescuer passed by in his vehicle, he noticed the blaze. He assisted in carrying the couple out of their flaming house and ensured they weren’t injured. This rescue occurred prior to the firefighters’ arrival.

"It was chilly outdoors, and he mentioned feeling cold. I removed my hoodie and placed it over his shoulders. Regardless of the circumstances, if you come across someone in need, make an effort to assist them as much as possible," stated a man who assisted the couple.

When The Overtons headed to the hospital for medical care, upon their return, they encountered yet another obstacle.

"Someone broke into our place and stole everything we owned, including all my tools, my lawnmower, some old coins, and even the cash, they took it all," Sheldon Overton stated.

Weeks have passed since then, but the Overtons still haven't found anywhere to live.

To assist them in getting back up, the Yark Automotive Group along with 13 Action News provided the Overtons with a check worth $1,300.

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