On July 2, 2025, Michele Evans endured a terrifying house fire that trapped her inside her home. Thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of our dedicated first responders, Michele and her beloved cat, GI Joe, were rescued and are now safe and sound!
When smoke became too intense, Michele was on the phone with Dispatcher William, who continued to encourage her to get to safety if she could, calmly gathered crucial information, and relayed it to our crews, letting them know Michele was in dire need of rescue.
Battalion Chief Neil Durante was the first on the scene, bravely breaking through the door to gain entry. Right behind him, Battalion Chief Ryan Anderson along with Firefighter Max Stevens cleared the way, ensuring crews had access to the burning home.
Lieutenant Caleb Kamarad and Firefighter Aaron Lanka quickly entered, calling out to locate Ms. Evans. They found her promptly and carried her out to safety. Michele then alerted them that her cat, GI Joe, was still inside. Firefighter Lanka soon located Joe in rough condition, and along with Animal Control and AMR, administered oxygen. Joe was transported to Broadmoor East Veterinary Clinic for further care.
In recognition of their bravery and selflessness, Chief Dykshorn and Deputy Chief Wood presented BC Durante, BC Anderson, Lt. Kamarad, Ff. Max Stevens and Ff. Lanka with certificates and letters of commendation. Ms. Evans presented our firefighters with the CFR’s Distinguished Service Award Medal.
The appreciation didn’t stop there. In a heartwarming gesture, Ms. Evans and her son, Jason Schonhoff of the Applegate Fire Department in Oregon, also honored Lt. Kamarad and Ff. Lanka. They presented each of them with a challenge coin from Schonhoff’s home department.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in this heroic rescue, Cheyenne Police Department, AMR – Cheyenne, Cheyenne Firefighters, Dispatch, and the Fire Marshal’s Office Investigators. Mrs. Evans, we are so thrilled that you and Joe are here and thriving! https://www.facebook.com/cheyennefirerescue/
#HeroicRescue #Firefighters #CommunityHeroes #Grateful #ApplegateFireDepartment #BroadmoreVet #AMR
Andrew Dykshorn
Don Wood
Neil Durante
Ryan Anderson
Caleb Kamarad
Max Stevens
Aaron Lanka