The town of Valdese appointed Marc Sharpe as the new chief of police, officials announced Monday in a news release.

Valdese Fire Chief Charles Watts was one of the first responders. Channel 9 learned Phillips-Rice used to be a junior firefighter.

Every fire department in Burke County responded to the fires because of the threat to homes on the mountain.

Historic Valdese Clip: Season 21 Episode 7 | 4m 17s | CC The town of Valdese honors the heritage and determination of its Waldensian founders.

Not long after Michael suffered his heart attack, a first responder with Valdese Fire showed up and immediately began with respirations.

Not long after Michael suffered his heart attack, a first responder with Valdese Fire showed up and immediately began with respirations.

Not long after Michael suffered his heart attack, a first responder with Valdese Fire showed up and immediately began with respirations.