by City of Clermont
Three Clermont firefighters were recognized by the Clermont City Council for their bravery and teamwork during the rescue of a woman trapped inside her burning home the night of July 5, 2026.
The Engine 101 crew arrived first to the scene. It included Lt. Jason Ness, a 15½-year veteran of the department; Ride-Up Engineer Jackie Collazo, with four years of service; and Probationary Firefighter Grant Kelly, who has been with the department for six months.
Just before 11 pm., a woman called 911, screaming for help after becoming trapped by fire inside her home. Lake County Fire Rescue Dispatch quickly dispatched fire crews, with initial reports indicating three people were trapped inside.
Engine 101 and Heavy Rescue 1 arrived together to an active structure fire with reports of multiple trapped occupants. Based on information from the caller, Heavy Rescue 1 was assigned search and rapidly deployed to the rear of the home where they believed the victim was located.
Engine 101 began firefighting operations at the front. As Kelly pulled a hose toward the fire, he heard the woman screaming from inside and immediately alerted Ness.
Recognizing the immediate life hazard and the need to control the fire, Ness directed Kelly to continue fire suppression while he checked the adjacent room. Ness entered alone, placing himself in harm’s way to reach the trapped woman. He located her and pulled her from the burning home, receiving assistance from additional arriving units once outside.
“This was a coordinated fireground effort from the beginning,” Clermont Fire Department Division Chief Bryan Bull said. “Our crews arrived with reports of three people trapped and immediately went to work. Lt. Ness made the decision to put himself in harm’s way to reach her, while his crew and other firefighters performed the critical tasks necessary for a successful rescue.”
The City recognized Ness, Collazo and Kelly for their actions, while also acknowledging all responding Clermont Fire Department personnel, Lake County Fire Rescue dispatchers and mutual-aid partners whose teamwork contributed to the successful outcome.
“We train for these moments throughout our careers,” Bull said. “That night, our firefighters relied on their training, communicated with one another, and performed when it mattered most.”
About the City of Clermont –known as the “Choice of Champions™” and the Triathlon Capital of the World® — is a thriving city of more than 50,000 residents, and the largest city in Lake County. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic lakes, Clermont blends small-town charm with modern opportunity; and offers a vibrant downtown, abundant parks, and premier recreational amenities. Committed to health, wellness,sustainability, and growth, the city is recognized as a welcoming leader among Florida’s most dynamic communities. For more information, visit the city’s website at ClermontFL.gov, or follow the city on social media: @CityofClermont
