Overview
- Newly released police video Tuesday shows Officers Thomas Velte and Brandon Lowe catching two children dropped from a third‑floor balcony during Sunday’s pre‑dawn fire at Georgetown Oaks in Chatham County.
- After the children were safe, firefighters John‑William Farrell and Christopher Carter raised a ladder and rescued three more people under heavy smoke and flames.
- Officials said 22 of the building’s 24 units were destroyed, and two children were taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation.
- The Georgia State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause, and a posted $10,000 arson‑tip sign at the complex has no confirmed tie to this fire.
- Residents face urgent recovery needs after losing homes and key papers, with one neighbor, Mylee Muci, saying she must replace birth certificates and Social Security cards after helping warn others to escape.