A 34-year-old Florida father lost his life in a house fire after allegedly falling asleep while heating oil on the stove to make chicken wings. His two young children were rescued and survived the incident.
The fire broke out on the morning of May 30 at the Pine Ridge Apartments in Gulf County, according to the Port St. Joe Police Department. When officers arrived, the apartment was filled with thick smoke.
A child was found near the back door of the apartment, barely breathing. Officers immediately carried the child outside and began providing emergency medical care. Despite dangerous conditions and zero visibility caused by dense smoke, first responders entered the apartment again and located a second child along with the children’s father, Walter Bowers III.
Bowers and his two children were transported to local hospitals in critical condition. The following day, authorities reported that the children, approximately 5 and 10 years old, were recovering remarkably well, awake, and playing.
Sadly, Bowers passed away on June 1. In a statement shared through police, his family remembered him, affectionately known as “Boug,” as a devoted father, son, brother, grandson, nephew, brother-in-law, and friend whose kindness and presence impacted many people.
The family expressed gratitude for the support they have received and asked for continued prayers as they help Bowers’ children cope with the devastating loss.
According to Port St. Joe Police Chief Jake Richards, the fire was caused by a pot of oil left on the stove while Bowers was preparing to cook wings. Investigators believe he may have fallen asleep before he began cooking.
Speaking after the tragedy, Bowers’ mother, Tammy, said she finds comfort in knowing her grandchildren survived and are doing well despite the heartbreaking circumstances.
The incident was especially emotional for some first responders, including two police officers who had attended high school with Bowers. One officer described the loss as particularly difficult, recalling their years as classmates.
Friends and former classmates remembered Bowers as someone with a great sense of humor and a generous heart. A GoFundMe campaign has since been launched to help support the family during this challenging time.
