Nationwide — Ranajai Hill, a 5-year-old African American boy from Vicksburg, Mississippi, alerted his family to a fire that destroyed their home two days after Thanksgiving. His quick thinking helped everyone escape safely, showing courage far beyond his five years.
According to WAPT, Ranajai was sitting on the couch early Saturday morning, watching TV, when he noticed flames and heat spreading nearby. Instead of panicking, he ran to wake his grandmother, Jennifer Smith, and alert her to the fire.
In the house at the time were Ranajai, his little sister, his grandmother, and two uncles. Because of his fast action, all five escaped safely in the clothes they were wearing.
The Vicksburg Fire Department reported the fire started from a gas space heater and completely destroyed the home. Smith said losing their belongings was devastating, but she is grateful her family survived.
Though shy and soft-spoken, Ranajai’s compassion and awareness stood out. His grandmother says that courage and care for others is what helped save their lives.
“Without him being the brave hero he was, it could have been worse. I don’t even want to explain,” she said.
The family has set up a GoFundMe to replace lost clothing and essentials as they begin rebuilding their home. It has so far raised nearly $500.