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Officers carry 86-year-old man out of burning home in Findlay Township

FINDLAY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Flames tore through a home on Ferguson Road around 9:30 p.m. Sunday.

A man noticed the flames coming from his friend’s home and called 911.

Officers arrived moments later, went around to the back of the house and carried 86-year-old Richard Rhodes out of the home. Medics transported him to Mercy Hospital’s burn unit.

Findlay Township Police Chief John Hart says Rhodes experienced severe smoke inhalation.

“Mr. Rhodes is a pillar in his community, and I hope he pulls through,” said Chief Hart. “I would stop to see him on a regular basis, and I don’t know what I’d do if I’m not able to see him. He has so many close friends who take care of him, and he always reciprocates.”

Chief Hart added that Rhodes still goes to work every day at 86 years old.

The Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating. The cause of the fire has not been released.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help Rhodes with expenses he will face during this time. Click here to donate.