Penndel Borough Council honored police officer Sean Peck earlier this month for his act of “extraordinary heroism.”
Because of Peck, eight people are alive today after a Dec. 11 fire on West Woodland Avenue which decimated a borough home.
Peck was working out of Penndel Police Headquarters, which is across the street, when he saw a residence in flames. He immediately ran into the the danger and smoke-filled home, bringing with him three children and five adults to safety.
He put their lives ahead of his own.
Council also recognized neighbor Justin Ritorto whose quick action in knocking on the door helped alert the family to the fire danger.
The blaze broke out around 4 a.m. just outside the home near the garage. Fire fighters battled the inferno that engulfed the 2.5-story balloon frame dwelling for about three hours, fire officials said.
What was left of the home was torn down due to structural instability concerns, said officials.
“Officer Peck’s bravery, along with Justin’s quick action turned a potentially tragic situation into one of hope and survival,” officials said.
Credit: Submitted