The Columbia-Richland Fire Department had the honor of congratulating two citizens for the swift actions they took on the scenes of two separate emergencies this summer.
Fire Chief Jenkins presented Eric Febles and South Chester Fire Chief Eugene Hudson each with a Certificate of Recognition at Station 26 on the afternoon of August 26, 2025.
“Both of these emergency incidents occurred in the Blythewood area. One was a kitchen fire at an area restaurant and the other was a motor vehicle accident that involved three cars near Winnsboro Road and Blythewood Road,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins, “The two men we had the pleasure of recognizing stepped in quickly to provide support that helped our responding crews as well as their fellow citizens. Our department is very grateful for the steps they took to help us bring these incidents under control.”
(Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins with Eric Febles (left) and South Chester Fire Chief Eugene Hudson)
Eric Febles was dining at the Waffle House in Blythewood during the early morning hours of May 29, 2025. While he was there the griddle grill in the kitchen of the restaurant caught fire. Mr. Febles knew how to use a fire extinguisher and quickly grabbed one, entered the kitchen and put the fire out.
CRFD’s 3rd Shift crew on Engine 26 responded to the Waffle House and were notified of Mr. Febles actions when they arrived on scene. The crew then checked the grill and took steps to make sure the fire was completely out.
CRFD also recognized Fire Chief Hudson for the actions he took in support of our members on June 6, 2025. While traveling near Winnsboro Road and Blythewood Road Chief Hudson came upon a motor vehicle accident involving three vehicles. Chief Hudson offered his assistance to firefighters who were on scene working the accident and sprang into action directing traffic and cleaning up debris.
(from left: Eric Febles, CRFD Engineer Eduardo Ramirez & South Chester Fire Chief Eugene Hudson)
