Navy Father Severely Burned Shielding Son in Mount Hope House Fire

A Navy father is hospitalized with severe burns after rescuing his 2-year-vintage son from a house fire that destroyed their Mount Hope home on Carlos Street in San Diego, California. The fire, which broke out over the weekend, has left the family displaced and facing a long road to recovery.

Heroic Rescue

According to his wife, Shaliah Dehnz, the fire rapidly engulfed their duplex, making escape tough. In a desperate act of bravery, Rick Dehnz shielded his son, Ricky, from the flames while attempting to get to safety. “He did shield our baby. Most of the burns he did sustain were on his back and his arms,” Shaliah Dehnz told NBC 7 San Diego.

Injuries and Recovery

Rick Dehnz suffered second- and third-degree burns over more than half of his body and remains on a ventilator. His wife reports his prognosis is good, though the recovery timeline is uncertain. Their 2-year-old son, Ricky, is expected to fully recover from his burns, which are on his back and hands, with a minor singe on his nose. Shaliah Dehnz was treated and released from the hospital within a day of the incident.

Cause of the Fire

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, but authorities discovered an e-bike battery at the scene. 10News reports that the battery may have exploded, potentially sparking the blaze. Fire officials have confirmed the discovery but have not yet determined the official cause.

Community Support

The fire destroyed the family’s home and most of their belongings, including the loss of their two pets. Shaliah Dehnz, also a Navy engineer, is now facing the challenges of recovery and rebuilding with her son, largely on her own as their families live outside the area. “I just aim for to find a home, find a safe space for my son and place for my husband to heal up. I’m trying to do my best,” she said to NBC 7 San Diego. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to provide aid to the Dehnz family.

E-Bike Battery Fire Risks

The incident highlights the growing concern over the safety of lithium-ion batteries, particularly those used in e-bikes. The City of San Diego’s Fire-Rescue and Environmental Services departments have issued warnings about the risks associated with these batteries, urging residents to follow manufacturer instructions as they “burn hotter and faster than typical home fires,” according to a City of San Diego press release.