A quick thinking neighbor was able to extinguish a fire at a condominium at 2213 Metropolitan Way. Image courtesy of KFD

KNOXVILLE - In a dramatic turn of events tonight, a diligent neighbor thwarted what could have escalated into a devastating condominium fire at 2213 Metropolitan Way. At precisely 10:13 P.M., the Knox County 911 Center sprang into action following a frantic call reporting a possible fire. Little did they know that a heroic act was already in motion just moments before.

As the clock ticked on, the neighbor—a quick-thinking individual—was startled by a loud explosion that rattled the quiet night air. Without a moment's hesitation, he sprang into action, rushing to investigate the source of the commotion. To his shock, he discovered flames roaring from the garage of the adjacent unit. Time was of the essence, and the courageous neighbor didn’t falter. He forced open the garage door and quickly snatched a fire extinguisher from nearby.

With adrenaline pumping, he unleashed a barrage of fire-fighting power, using not one, but two small extinguishers to battle the flames that had already begun their assault on a car parked inside the garage. His swift actions effectively snuffed out the fire, preventing it from spreading further and potentially causing catastrophic damage.

When the Knoxville Fire Department (KFD) arrived on the scene moments later, they found the situation contained and confirmed that the fire had been fully extinguished thanks to the neighbor's quick thinking. The solitary resident of the condominium, a male occupant, emerged unharmed—thanks to the timely activation of smoke alarms that alerted him to the danger lurking just outside his door. Remarkably, no injuries were reported.

“Having a working fire extinguisher in your home can turn a small emergency into a manageable moment and can stop a fire before it can become a life-changing disaster,” emphasized Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks in a statement underscoring the importance of preparedness.

Tonight’s incident stands as a thrilling reminder of how courage and readiness can save lives and property. Thanks to the vigilant neighbor, what could have been a night of despair transformed into one of gratitude and relief—proof that heroes often live right next door.