500 Smoke Alarms Donated In Honor Of 9-Year-Old Fire Victim

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — The West-Ramirez family recently teamed up with Prince George's firefighters and to donate 500 smoke alarms in honor of 9-year-old Jonah West-Ramirez.

On Aug. 5, 2025, a fire broke out at Jonah's home and he became trapped on the second floor. Prince George's firefighters rescued him, but despite all attempts to save his life at the scene and the hospital, Jonah died.

PGFD Fire Chief Thelemtria Michaelides accepted the donations of 500 smoke alarms from District 8 Prince George’s County Council Member Edward Burroughs III, in partnership with Pastor Kue Williams of Greater Works Ministry through the Jonah West-Ramirez Smoke Alarm and Fire Safety Program and Jonah’s family.

The Jonah West-Ramirez Smoke Alarm and Fire Safety Program was established in honor of Jonah and to provide greater fire prevention and life safety education opportunities to the residents of District 8.

The smoke alarms will be distributed to fire stations across District 8 and homeowners can call the PGFD Watch Office at 301-583-2200 to request a free smoke alarm installation.

"The men and women of the PGFD salute the courage of the West-Ramirez family to share their story and honor Jonah in such an important and impactful way," the fire department stated.

There will be a District 8 Fire Safety Day June 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Center, 7007 Bock Rd., in Fort Washington. Residents can pick up a free smoke alarm while supplies last, chat with PGFD personnel, participate in Hands Only CPR and Stop the Bleed training, engage in fire and life safety education, and other fire safety activities.

To request fire and life safety training for your school, church, business, or community organization, call the PGFD Office of Community Relations at 301-883-5250.