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Man’s GPS Leads to Rescue of 14 From Fire

By Drooid · Oct 28, 2026, 00:29 UTC · How we work

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Summary

Casey Sparks rescued 14 family members from a burning home in Lyerly, Georgia.
His GPS sent him onto Georgia Route 114, and he saw the fire at 11:58 p.m. on Oct. 17.
He pulled over, told his son to call 911, and entered the house.
Sparks and James Burke rescued Larita Burke, their 11 children and a grandchild, saving all 14.
Fire chief Tim Deberry said a five-minute delay could have caused fatalities.

Summary

A fire completely destroyed the Burkes’ home, leaving the family without shelter.
The family began searching for a rental large enough for 14 members while rebuilding.
Neighbors and local groups quickly organized donation drives to replace lost belongings.
The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office said the fire’s cause remains under investigation pending forensic analysis.
James and Larina Burke have fostered more than 500 children over 15 years and intend to continue.

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Casey Sparks Rescues Family

Casey Sparks rescued 14 family members from a burning home in Lyerly, Georgia.
His GPS sent him onto Georgia Route 114, and he saw the fire at 11:58 p.m. on Oct. 17.
He pulled over, told his son to call 911, and entered the house.
Sparks and James Burke rescued Larita Burke, their 11 children and a grandchild, saving all 14.
Fire chief Tim Deberry said a five-minute delay could have caused fatalities.

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