Federal Way hero recognized by council

Parker Ewing was recognized at a council meeting last month for his bravery. Parker and his great-grandpa were asleep when their family's home caught fire on Oct. 30. He was leading the family's two dogs to safety through the back door when he heard his great-grandpa crying for help. Parker bravely rushed back into the burning house, where he found his great-grandpa in bed. Parker carried him through the thick black smoke and heat to near the front door and set him down. Parker then went back into the home to rescue more of the many family pets. He only made it halfway down the hallway when he was overcome by smoke and heat and collapsed.

Parker Ewing was recognized at a council meeting last month for his bravery. Parker and his great-grandpa were asleep when their family’s home caught fire on Oct. 30. He was leading the family’s two dogs to safety through the back door when he heard his great-grandpa crying for help. Parker bravely rushed back into the burning house, where he found his great-grandpa in bed. Parker carried him through the thick black smoke and heat to near the front door and set him down. Parker then went back into the home to rescue more of the many family pets. He only made it halfway down the hallway when he was overcome by smoke and heat and collapsed.

Fortunately for Parker, South King Fire and Rescue was on scene. Lt. Patrick Mertlich and firefighter Greg Willet found Parker and rescued him from the burning home.

Lt. Layne Winter along with firefighters Ryan Dupras and Kerry Moore were able to reach Thomas Finckel (Parker’s great-grandpa), but sadly Mr. Finckle passed away from his injuries that evening.