A passing motorist was the guardian angel for a sleeping family inside a burning home at 6051 Franklin Road. Around 5:30 Sunday morning (5/22/2016), the motorist pounded on the door and everyone safely escaped the inferno without injuries.

The Rutherford County Fire and Rescue along with the Almaville Volunteer Fire Department rushed to the scene.

Rutherford County Chief Larry Farley told NewsRadio WGNS, "Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames coming from the rear of the home. We quickly extinguished the fire and contained to the den."

The cause of the fire has not been determined at this time, but will be investigated by Rutherford county fire investigators.

Farley commented, "The family was very fortunate that someone saw the fire and alerted them as there was no smoke alarm system there."

Both the Rutherford County Fire-Rescue as well as Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue have free smoke alarms and will install them free of charge. County residents should contact Rutherford County Fire-Rescue at 615-867-4626. Residents living within the Murfreesboro city limits should phone Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue at 615-893-1422.