Heroic Rescue: Arizona Homeowner and Dog Escaped Blazing Inferno Thanks to Sheriff’s Deputies

A quick response from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office saved a homeowner and their dogs from a devastating fire in Cordes Lake late Sunday night. The fire, which completely engulfed a detached garage, was first spotted by a deputy shortly after 10 p.m.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered that the flames had rapidly spread. “It looked like it started in the back and then fully engulfed the whole shop area,” noted Deputy Patrick Boehn.

After confirming the safety of the homeowner, deputies learned that two dogs were trapped in a kennel at the rear of the building, dangerously close to the advancing flames.

“We knew we only had a few moments to work with,” Deputy Steven Tobin emphasized, reflecting on the urgent situation. Without hesitation, the deputies rushed into the burning structure.

With bolt cutters in hand, they managed to free one of the dogs from the kennel before it could be harmed. “As soon as I saw the chain on the fence, my heart sank a little bit,” said Tobin. The relieved deputy described how he calmed the dog down upon rescuing it.

The homeowner, Warren Jenkins, expressed deep gratitude that he and his pets emerged unharmed, although his garage and pickup truck were deemed a total loss. “That thing was part of my life from ’02 till 2025,” Jenkins lamented as he faced the challenge of rebuilding at the age of 87.

Deputies carried out additional checks in the neighborhood, helping residents evacuate and ensuring no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Both Boehn and Tobin shared that while they frequently respond to emergencies, successful rescues like this one bring them a sense of fulfillment. “Anytime we get to save anybody or anything, it’s a great day,” Tobin concluded.