Witnesses, Off-Duty Fireman Rescue Two Women From Fire
The rescue took place Friday afternoon in Centreville.
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Three witnesses and a fireman teamed up on Friday afternoon to save two women from a fire at a Centreville townhouse.
Two people were transported from the scene, near 6120 Hoskins Hollow Circle, with what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries. Dozens of Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department firefighters were able to get the fire, which started shortly before 4 p.m., under control in about 20 minutes, according to emergency personnel.
Said Benayed, a Fairfax County employee, was working outside when he smelled smoke. He raced over to a townhouse, where he saw fire from the back. Concerned that there might be someone inside the house, he busted the door open, but no one was there. Seeing that the fire had spread, he busted open the door to an adjoining townhouse.
Inside were two women. One was elderly, situated in what appeared to be a hospital chair, and the other, younger, was asleep next to her, Benayad said.
“Entire half of the house on fire and they sleep. They have no idea,” said Benayad.
Ashley Osterday, 32, a neighbor, and an unidentified male neighbor had run inside by that point to assist.
It was around that time that Captain William Moreland of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, an off-duty public information officer, arrived at the scene. Moreland had spotted the fire as he drove from a nearby road and called in the coordinates to radio dispatch.
After arriving at the scene, he obtained the address to give to the dispatch units. He immediately suited up, entered the house and helped the Good Samaritans take the woman out.
There was also a dog in the house, which they were able to save. Osterday took the Blue Beagle to her house, where it is resting safe and sound.
All the people inside received medical attention. Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the incident.
Story updated at 7:50 p.m. from original post.
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Olga Hernandez
7:05 pm on Friday, June 22, 2012
We saw the massive fire and rescue response as we were returning home. The traffic on Singleton was being diverted. Thank goodness for our responsive fire, rescue and public safety personnel.
Michele
7:22 pm on Friday, June 22, 2012
I am grateful to live in a community that treats their neighbors this way! Thank you!
There are places where bystanders would not go to help, rather just stand by and video it.... I am grateful for everyday heroes!
Mary C. Stachyra
7:00 am on Saturday, June 23, 2012
Even saved the dog while they were at it!
B Jones
7:14 pm on Saturday, June 23, 2012
Thank God for citizens like Said Ben Ayed who through his bravery and decency acted in a moment of crisis, putting his own safety second to assist those in great need in an emergency. These are the kind of stories that we need to see more of. Due to his courage, we are reading s story that ends well. Thak you and job well done!
Tina Stephens
9:11 am on Sunday, June 24, 2012
Said Ben-Ayed was in the right place, at the right time, AND had the courage and common decency to do something about it. Without his quick response, this story may have had a very different ending. By the time the fire personnel arrived it may have been too late for those two ladies. Ben-Ayed's actions were heroic, and should be recognized. He certainly could have been seriously injured in his efforts, but with disregard to this possibility, he chose to do the brave and compassionate thing in saving these women. He is a hero! T. Stephens
S.M. Dyer
9:55 pm on Sunday, June 24, 2012
I retired fom Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Services 28 years ago, serving as secretary to the Fire Chief, and am proud of the work performed by the fire personnel. However, there are times, in which the selfless bravery of individuals make a difference between life and death and this may have been the case in ths situation. Said Benayed is to be commended for his brave act. He first called 911 and instantly acted to rescue any individuals who may have been in the burning house. Fortunately, he was able to save both ladies without regard to his own safety. Said Benayed is a credit to our community. Thank you..
Marion Cochran
6:24 am on Thursday, June 28, 2012
Living in this sub-division, I personnaly know Said. It does not surprise me in the least that he would take these actions. He should definitely be commended for his quick response and actions. What is surprising, is that if you pull up the Fairfax County Fire Dept. account of the fire, his name or any mention of his heroic actions are not even mentioned. Marion Cochran
Karen Bilak
10:20 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
Said Benayed is a true hero. I hope Fairfax County Park Authority, his employer, realize the leader they have and take steps to reward him. He is a good Samaritan and we are lucky to have him in the Centreville community. K. Bilak