For Immediate Release
Contact: Julia Keane 508-368-7226 or 774-530-1207
WORCESTER – Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. today recognized Worcester Police Officers and Firefighters who assisted residents in two simultaneous fires, including rescuing a father and daughter trapped on the roof of a burning apartment building.
Officers Christopher Fazah, Nicholas Kalil, Johny Nunez, Randy Rodriguez, Abdulla Waleed, Michael Casey and Joseph Welch and Firefighter Seamus Shanley, Juan Lopez, Sean Davis and Worcester Fire Department Group 4 were presented with the District Attorney’s Team Excellence and Merit – TEAM – Award, which honors outstanding service by public safety professionals who go above and beyond the call of duty.
“At two simultaneous fires, these first responders acted without hesitation to assist residents and ensure their safety,” Mr. Early said. “As they always do, all involved showed a great regard for the safety of others rather than themselves as they worked to safely evacuate residents. Thanks to the actions of Officer Waleed and those at these two scenes, all residents got out safely, including a little girl. We are very lucky to have the great Police Department and Fire Department that protect us each and every day.
On April 14, 2025, Worcester Police, Fire, and EMS units responded to a structure fire at 66 Vernon Street. Upon arrival, officials were alerted that a father and daughter were trapped by heavy fire on the roof of the deli on the second floor of the building.
The father stood with his daughter in his arms as the flames began to spread. Officer Waleed stood below the roof and encouraged the man to lower the child down. Officer Waleed, standing about 12 feet below, was able to catch the toddler and quickly ensure she was unharmed.
Worcester Firefighters Juan Lopez and Sean Davis swiftly deployed a ladder to assist the father to safety. Firefighter Seamus Shanley climbed onto the roof and confirmed no one else was in the building. The pair were assessed by emergency personnel on scene and did not need to be taken to the hospital.
On the same afternoon, Worcester police and Worcester Fire Department Group 4 responded to a fire at 16 Harlow St. When responders arrived, the building was engulfed in flames and heavy black smoke. First responders worked quickly to make sure no residents remained in the building and to extinguish the flames. One female resident of the building was transported to the hospital and has since recovered from her injuries.
Officers Kalil, Nunez and Rodriguez all had to be treated for smoke inhalation as a result of the fire.
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.
“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.”
“Firefighters quickly employed their training and expertise to help rescue residents, ensure no loss of life and minimize damage. The men and women of our department, again displayed true professionalism and situational awareness,” said Worcester Fire Chief Martin Dyer. “I am proud of the efforts of both the firefighters and police officers; their actions are a great example of the exceptional service that our two departments provide to the community.”
Mr. Early created the TEAM Award in 2019 to recognize public safety employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. Contact the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office at (508) 755-8601 to nominate someone for this award.
HERE ARE THE AWARD RECIPIENTS WHO WERE INVOLVED
Harlow St. Rescue:
Worcester Police Department:
Officer Christopher Fazah
Officer Johnny Nunez
Officer Nicholas Kalil
Officer Randy Rodriguez
Worcester Fire Department Group 4
Vernon St. Rescue:
Worcester Police Department:
Officer Abdulla Waleed
Officer Michael Casey
Sergeant Joseph Welch
Worcester Fire Department:
Firefighter Seamus Shanley
Firefighter Juan Lopez
Firefighter Sean Davis
