Worcester police and firefighters honored for rooftop rescue during dual fires

WORCESTER, Mass. – A team of Worcester police officers and firefighters were honored this week by the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office for rescuing a father and daughter trapped on a rooftop during one of two simultaneous structure fires last month.

District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. presented the District Attorney’s Team Excellence and Merit (TEAM) Award to seven Worcester Police officers and multiple Worcester Fire Department personnel for their actions during emergencies at 66 Vernon St. and 16 Harlow St. on April 14. The award recognizes public safety officials who exceed their duty in service to the community.

“At two simultaneous fires, these first responders acted without hesitation to assist residents and ensure their safety,” said Early. “Thanks to the actions of Officer Waleed and those at these two scenes, all residents got out safely, including a little girl.”

During the Vernon Street fire, a father and his young daughter were trapped on the roof above a deli. Officer Abdulla Waleed stood below the roof and instructed the father to lower the child down. Waleed caught the toddler from about 12 feet and confirmed she was unharmed. Firefighters Juan Lopez and Sean Davis deployed a ladder to bring the father to safety, while Firefighter Seamus Shanley climbed to the roof to verify no one else remained inside.

Emergency personnel assessed the pair at the scene. Neither required hospitalization.

Second fire on Harlow Street leads to injuries

At the same time, police and Worcester Fire Department Group 4 responded to a second fire at 16 Harlow St., where they encountered a fully involved structure with heavy smoke. First responders evacuated the building and extinguished the flames. One woman was hospitalized but has since recovered.

Officers Nicholas Kalil, Johny Nunez, and Randy Rodriguez were treated for smoke inhalation after assisting with the response. All involved were commended for their coordination under pressure.

“Each day, the men and women of the Worcester Police Department face dangerous and unpredictable situations,” said Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier. “We are proud to honor these officers who put themselves in harm’s way to keep members of our community safe.”

Fire Chief Martin Dyer praised the responders’ swift action. “The men and women of our department, again displayed true professionalism and situational awareness,” he said.

Early established the TEAM Award in 2019 to recognize acts of extraordinary public service by law enforcement and emergency personnel.

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