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BWC: Pa. officers force entry into burning home, rescue woman unable to walk

“These two officers didn’t even think twice about going into that house and pulling that woman out,” Johnstown Deputy Chief Mark Britton said

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Two Johnstown police officers are being recognized for their bravery after rescuing a woman from a house fire, WJAC reported.

The March 29 incident occurred when Officer Jared Lefevre noticed heavy smoke coming from a residence, according to the report. Believing the home might be occupied, he approached and saw a light on the second floor.

Body camera footage released by police shows Lefevre forcing entry through the front door after receiving no response. Once inside, he heard a woman calling out, saying she could not walk. He located the woman, who was immobile and seated in a chair.

Officer Eric Allen arrived shortly after and assisted Lefevre in carrying the woman from the second floor to safety in the backyard of the home. Emergency crews transported her to a hospital, according to the report. Her current condition has not been released.

Deputy Police Chief Mark Britton praised the officers, calling their actions heroic.

“These two officers didn’t even think twice about going into that house and pulling that woman out... I’m extremely, extremely proud of the job that they did,” Britton said.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, according to the report. No other injuries were reported.

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Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com