LaGrange firefighter injured in blaze returns to work

LAGRANGE, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - A LaGrange firefighter who was injured in the line of duty was greeted with a heartwarming celebration on his first day back to work on Monday.

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LaGrange Fire Department Lt. Josh Williams sustained third-degree burns while fighting a blaze at a home on the 300 block of Revis Street Labor Day. He was one of six firefighters injured in the fire, which was called one of the worst that the department had ever seen.

As he returned to work, Williams was greeted by a line of his fellow firefighters who were there to celebrate his return.

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“We wanted to make today special for Josh to let him know we care about him and we love him,” said LFD Chief John Brant. “Anytime someone is injured like that it’s a special day when they come back. Josh is real special to the department. It just means a lot to us on a personal and professional level. We really missed him being here and it means to world to us for him to be back.”

Williams, who was overcome with emotion, hugged every person in line before reporting for duty for the first time.

“It’s a good feeling but a hard feeling," He said. "I felt this unbelievable support for the past five months. I just can’t describe the feeling I have. It’s truly amazing.”

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As he continues his recovery, Williams will be on light duty at the LaGrange Fire Department Headquarters.

Williams, Jordan Avera, Jon Williamson, and Pete Trujillo all suffered second or third-degree burns in the fire. Firefighters Jim Ormsby and Sean Guerrero received minor injuries.