It's been almost two weeks since an arson fire at a Forsyth County house led to the injuries of three firefighters, leaving one of them hospitalized with serious burns.
Since then, the community has rallied around Fire Apparatus Operator/EMT David Cody, according to Fire Division Chief Jason Shivers.
"He suffered third degree burns to his upper extremities and is still in the burn unit [at Grady Hospital in Atlanta] undergoing treatment," Shivers said in an email statement. "He has had a series of skin grafts but still has more treatments in his future. There is no release date for him as of yet but he is in stable condition. Otherwise, he is in good spirits and is getting visited by family when allowed."
Shivers said community members have been able to offer financial support to the Cody family in a couple of different ways.
Lanier Goods Company on Freedom Parkway in Cumming sold custom t-shirts to show support for the injured firefighter, and while the order deadline has passed, the company is still collecting store and restaurant gift cards to help the family as members travel back and forth to the hospital. Donations can be made in person at the store.
Also, the local BADGE program is accepting monetary donations for the Cody family. Any donations will go to Cody's wife to help with expenses while her husband is hospitalized. Any donation should include David Cody's name so funds can be directed to his family.
Shivers said the other two firefighters suffered injuries that were less severe. Firefighter/EMT Patrick Francis sustained a second degree burn to one ear.
"He has returned to full duty but, ironically, his wife just had their new child so he’s taking a few more days off to be with his family.," Shivers said.
Also, Firefighter/EMT Zak Holbrook has returned to full duty after receiving minor first degree burns through his gear, according to Shivers.
All three firefighters are assigned to Company 12.
Arson suspect remains in jail
The suspect in the Aug. 4 arson, Shanice Riggins-Davenport, remains in custody at the Forsyth County Jail, according to Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Stacie Miller. She is being held without bond on charges of first-degree arson in connection with the house fire at 4305 Hopewell Manor Drive. She has also been charged with aggravated assault. The fire reportedly was set during a domestic altercation, although details of that incident have not been released as the investigation continues.
