Petersburg honors 12 year old Ramir Parker for heroic family fire rescue

The Petersburg City Council convened on June 17, 2025, to honor a remarkable act of bravery by a local youth during a recent emergency. The meeting began with a special presentation recognizing 12-year-old Ramir Parker for his heroic actions on June 3, when he saved his family from a house fire on Buckner Street.

Mayor Parham read a proclamation highlighting Ramir's quick thinking and courage. The proclamation detailed how Ramir detected the fire's danger, alerted his grandmother, and bravely entered a smoke-filled room to rescue his younger brothers, aged one and two. His actions were credited with preventing potential injury or worse, as confirmed by the Petersburg Fire and Emergency Services.

Chief Baller praised Ramir, stating that he had been made an honorary member of the fire department. He also announced that Ramir would throw the first pitch at the upcoming Chili Peppers game, which would celebrate first responders. The Chief expressed pride in Ramir's actions, emphasizing that he saved lives through his instinctive leadership.

Councilman Jones shared a personal reflection on the dangers of fire rescue, recounting a past incident where a young boy did not survive a similar attempt to save his siblings. He commended Ramir for his bravery and noted the importance of recognizing such acts of heroism in the community.

The meeting concluded with a call for the establishment of the Petersburg Fire Explorers program, aimed at engaging young individuals like Ramir in firefighting and emergency services. This initiative seeks to inspire the next generation of first responders, ensuring that the spirit of bravery and community service continues to thrive in Petersburg.