Rankins Donates $50K Raised For Recovery To Future Firefighters

NEW HAVEN, CT —A community came together to raise money to help support his recovery. Now, New Haven fire Lt. Samod "Nuke" Rankins, seriously injured in the Valley Street fire that claimed the life of city firefighter Ricardo Torres, Jr., will be paying it forward by donating the money raised by a GoFundMe appeal to provide scholarships for New Haveners looking to pursue firefighter careers to get EMT certifications.

Details on the “Ricardo Torres Jr. Scholarships” are expected Aug. 1.

According to a statement released by Rankins, applicants must be New Haven residents 18 or older.

“I am getting a bit better each day,” Rankins said, according to the New Haven Independent.“I would like to thank everyone for all their love, prayers, and support over the last few weeks. Words are not enough to express my true gratitude. Knowing I was surrounded by so much love, brought me a sense of peace and comfort during such a difficult time. You have helped carry the burden of this journey and your prayers made all difference in my healing. I have a long road ahead of me, but I know I’m not alone. Out of such a dark time came so much light and love. You brightened my darkest days and continue to help me fight each and every day. You have made a huge difference in my world and I pray a special blessing in return.”

Read more here:

New Haven Mourns Loss Of Firefighter, Prays For Another

New Haven Firefighter Lt. Samod 'Nuke' Rankins Leaves Hospital

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