![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lakelandgazette.info\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PCSO-AJ-Slater.webp?resize=872%2C490&ssl=1\")
\u201cOn November 7, 2024, you witnessed a severe crash whereby a vehicle collided with a tree and immediately caught fire,\u201d it reads. \u201cWithout hesitation, you rushed to the scene navigating thick smoke and intense heat to access the small children trapped inside the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDespite the immediate danger posed by flames and the potential for severe injury, you demonstrated remarkable courage and swift judgment in extricating one of the children from the wreckage,\u201d the commendation continues. \u201cAlthough critically injured during the rescue, you were not deterred from performing this selfless act of heroism.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Slater suffered significant burns across his hands, forearms, back and face while attempting to rescue 3-year-old Walker and 5-year-old JoLynn Wills from the vehicle, the latter of whom did not survive. He also assisted their father Kody Wills, who was subsequently charged with DUI manslaughter and more Dec. 31.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n PCSO\u2019s commendation notes that Slater\u2019s \u201crapid response \u2026 and fearless commitment to the well-being of others directly contributed to saving the life of a young child. Risking personal safety to assist others, despite the potential risks, [exemplifies] the highest standards of courage and compassion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOn behalf of the men and women of the Polk County Sheriff\u2019s Office and the citizens of Polk County, I commend you on a job well done,\u201d it concludes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sheriff Grady Judd issued it Feb. 3. His office also reflected on Slater\u2019s heroism Feb. 7 via social media, sharing Slater\u2019s GoFundMe, GoFundMe for the children\u2019s mother Logan Deines and a forthcoming charity event to raise funds for her family on Feb. 22.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThank you, Polk County,\u201d PCSO wrote. \u201cYou are what\u2019s right in the world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n