Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly honored a police officer, a crossing guard, a security guard and some good Samaritans for their heroic efforts in rescuing a disabled man during a Woods Road, North Babylon house fire at the December 17 General Meeting of the Legislature in Hauppauge.
Woods Road Elementary School Crossing Guard Sharon Doogan, Woods Road Security Guard Larry Knappe and residents Reonard Lamour and Karen Slizewski, who were all in the area when the house fire near the school broke out on October 23, 2019, immediately jumped into action to assist at the home where a disabled man was stuck at the top of his stairs. Doogan, Knappe and Lamour made initial brave attempts to get him out and keep him calm, while Slizewski alerted authorities to the emergency situation. When First Precinct Police Officer Francis McKay arrived on the scene, he took charge, ran to the man’s bedroom and carried him downstairs in a bear-hug style, saving his life.
The homeowner is now on the road to a full recovery.
“I am proud to recognize these local heroes, our own neighbors, for their selfless acts of courage,” said Legislator Donnelly, “While they all took on different roles in this emergency situation, each one selflessly placed their own life on the line to save the life of someone they didn’t even know. They showed how much they care and are an inspiration to all of us.”