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Buckhannon Today
By the People, for the People
Trooper Praised for Upshur Fire Rescue
New details released about response to weekend structure fire
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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The West Virginia State Police have released new details about a trooper's response to a weekend structure fire in Upshur County, where he rescued an elderly woman from the burning home and assisted a 10-month-old infant in getting medical attention. The initial press release had erroneously stated that the trooper made entry into the residence, but the updated statement clarifies his actions.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the critical role of first responders in emergency situations, and the importance of providing accurate information to the public. The trooper's quick thinking and bravery likely saved lives during the fire.
The details
According to the revised statement from the West Virginia State Police, Trooper C.J. Elmore of the Buckhannon Detachment was the first law enforcement officer to arrive on the scene of the fire on Kalafat Street in Buckhannon on Saturday. Upon arrival, Elmore observed smoke coming from a nearby residential structure. As he approached, a male individual ran into the smoke-filled home, yelling 'My baby girl.' Elmore immediately went to the back porch, where he assisted an elderly female down the outside staircase and escorted her to awaiting emergency medical personnel. Elmore then noticed a 10-month-old infant who had been removed from the home and carried the child to emergency medical services for evaluation. All eight occupants of the residence were safely evacuated without major injury.
- The fire occurred on Saturday, February 8, 2026 around 1 p.m.
- The West Virginia State Police released the initial press release on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.
The players
Trooper C.J. Elmore
A trooper with the Buckhannon Detachment of the West Virginia State Police who was the first law enforcement officer to respond to the fire and rescue an elderly woman and assist a 10-month-old infant.
Captain L.T. Goldie Jr.
The Deputy Chief of Staff of the West Virginia State Police who issued the revised statement providing new details about the incident.
What they’re saying
“Elmore ran through the smoke to the back porch and assisted the elderly female down the outside staircase and safely escorted her to awaiting emergency medical personnel.”
— Captain L.T. Goldie Jr., Deputy Chief of Staff, West Virginia State Police
“Trooper Elmore then noticed a 10-month-old infant, who had been removed from the smoke-filled home, in need of medical attention. He then carried the child to emergency medical services for evaluation.”
— Captain L.T. Goldie Jr., Deputy Chief of Staff, West Virginia State Police
What’s next
The West Virginia State Fire Marshal's Office is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.
The takeaway
This incident demonstrates the critical role of first responders in emergency situations and the importance of providing accurate information to the public. Trooper Elmore's quick thinking and bravery likely saved lives during the fire.
