Eglin battalion chief and wife lose Crestview home to lightning strike, community rallies in support

Community Rallies Around Eglin Battalion Chief After Lightning Strike

Brian and Kimberly Johnson's home in Crestview was struck by lightning, sparking a fire that has prompted an outpouring of support from the community.

Brian, a DOD firefighter and Battalion Chief at Eglin Air Force Base, was home alone when the incident occurred on the evening of September 25. He recalled hearing a loud noise, which sounded like lightning hitting a tree behind the house, around 6:30 p.m. during a thunderstorm.

"I heard the breaker trip in the laundry room, so I went and checked on it, and then I started walking around the house to see if I noticed the power being out or if anything was scorched or damaged,"

Brian said. Upon further investigation, he discovered smoke pouring from the breaker box in the utility room and immediately called 911.

The community, including neighbors, firefighters, and strangers, has rallied around the Johnsons, offering assistance and support.

Author's summary: A community comes together to support a firefighter.

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