Autism Light: Alex Swigart

September 18, 2012January 17, 2021 Alan Stokes

Alex Swigart died on April 2, 2011 at the age of 12, when his home near Bisbee Junction, Arizona caught on fire. Alex had autism and is an Autism Light because he saved the life of his father Joseph Swigart and a family friend who was in the house at the time of the fire. Alex Swigart is being added posthumously to the Autism Light Memorial Roll. He is the first person with autism to be placed on the Autism Light Memorial Roll.

Alex Swigart was the first in the family to smell smoke when the fire started and he in turn woke his father Joseph Swigart. This quick action probably saved his father’s life. In the chaos of the fire exit, Alex separated from his father and was trapped in the house. The fire engulfed the home quickly and he could not be saved.

Here is a video of the news story about the fire that took the life of Alex Swigart.

Facebook: A Memorial Page on Facebook has been established for Alex Swigart that anyone can join at Cafe Mom/The Stir

Despite the time that has elapsed since this tragedy, Alex Swigart continues to be in the hearts of his family and classmates at Lowell Junior High School. Alex Swigart was a hero to wake up his father when he discovered the fire. Alex Swigart’s story shows both how helpful children with autism can be and that they are especially at risk in emergency situations.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

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