WORCESTER—A group of Worcester police officers and firefighters were honored by Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. on Thursday for their life-saving efforts during two simultaneous fires in the city last month, including the dramatic rooftop rescue of a father and young daughter.
The responders were presented with the District Attorney’s Team Excellence and Merit (TEAM) Award, which recognizes outstanding public safety service performed beyond the call of duty.
“At two simultaneous fires, these first responders acted without hesitation to assist residents and ensure their safety,” Early said in the announcement. “Thanks to the actions of Officer Waleed and those at these two scenes, all residents got out safely, including a little girl.”
The fires occurred on April 14. One broke out at 66 Vernon St., where officials arriving on scene found a man and his daughter trapped on the roof above a deli. As the flames advanced, Worcester Police Officer Abdulla Waleed stood below and encouraged the man to lower his daughter. Standing roughly 12 feet below, Waleed caught the child and ensured she was unharmed.
Worcester Firefighters Juan Lopez and Sean Davis then deployed a ladder to help the father to safety. Firefighter Seamus Shanley climbed onto the roof to confirm no one else remained in the building. The pair did not require hospitalization.
At the same time, Worcester police and Fire Department Group 4 responded to a second blaze at 16 Harlow St., where heavy black smoke and flames engulfed the building. First responders ensured the building was cleared of residents and extinguished the fire. One woman was taken to the hospital but has since recovered.
Officers Nicholas Kalil, Johny Nunez, and Randy Rodriguez were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene.
“All of the police officers and firefighters worked together that day in difficult circumstances to ensure the safety of the residents of the city of Worcester,” the DA’s office said.
Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier added: “We are proud to honor these officers who put themselves in harm’s way to keep members of our community safe.”
Award recipients included Officers Christopher Fazah, Kalil, Nunez, Rodriguez, Waleed, Michael Casey and Joseph Welch; Firefighters Shanley, Lopez, Davis, and members of Worcester Fire Group 4.
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