Troopers commended for lifesaving actions

Maryland State Troopers from the North East Barrack are being commended for their actions after rescuing several elderly residents from a burning apartment complex.

Around 11 PM on Thursday, a fire reportedly started on the second floor of the Victoria Park Apartments on South Main Street in North East. The apartment is a 55+ retirement community, and Troopers immediately responded to help the North East Police and North East Fire Department.

According to the release, when they arrived, Troopers saw the building in flames and billowing smoke, and several elderly residents were struggling to escape.

Officials say that at great personal risk, and without protective apparel or breathing apparatus, six Maryland State Troopers entered the burning building to search for survivors. They were apparently able to find five residents who were unable to evacuate and physically carried the five residents to safety before returning to search for more victims.

Troopers reportedly continued searching the building until they were assured all residents had been evacuated. Officials say that members of the North East Fire Department then took over the scene and began fighting the fire.

As a result of their bravery, no lives were reportedly lost in the fire and only minor injuries were sustained. Officials say that waiting for emergency equipment to arrive may have led to a far more tragic outcome for the elderly residents.

All six Maryland State Troopers have been nominated for Life Saving awards for their selfless actions.