135 Rescued From Flooded Tampa Assisted Living Facility

Max Watts, of Buford, Ga., walks in the parking lot to check on a trailer parked outside the hotel where he is riding out Hurricane Milton with coworkers

First responders in Tampa have rescued at least 135 people from the Great American Assisted Living Facility, where residents were found in water up to their waists. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reported that individuals in wheelchairs and walkers were being loaded onto a Hillsborough County school bus as deputies and fire officials worked to ensure their safety.

One resident mentioned that the water had reached his knees, highlighting the challenging conditions faced by those inside the facility. Authorities were alerted to the situation after receiving a distress call about residents being trapped inside the facility around 7:05 a.m.

Residents found in water up to their waists, some in wheelchairs and walkers.

135 residents rescued from Great American Assisted Living Facility in Tampa.

Deputies and fire officials ensured safety, loading residents onto a school bus.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister commended the swift and compassionate actions of the deputies, emphasizing the importance of acting promptly in such emergencies. He stated, “In situations like this, every second counts. I’m incredibly proud of our deputies, who acted quickly and with compassion to ensure the safety of some of our community’s most vulnerable residents.”

The rescue operation was initiated in response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Milton, which has led to widespread flooding and posed significant challenges for residents and first responders alike. The commitment to protecting and assisting those in need remains a top priority for the authorities as they navigate the aftermath of the natural disaster.