A pair of Kidder Township police offices have been recognized for their heroic efforts in saving a citizen from a car fire.

Police officers Vince Morrow and Michael Nikityuk recently were presented “life saving commendations” and awards by both fire Chief Ralph Lennon, and police Chief Matt Kuzma.

Kuzma said that in the early hours of the morning on Nov. 14, patrolmen Vincent Morrow and Michael Nikityuk “demonstrated the very best of what it means to serve the citizens of Kidder Township.”

“Responding to a motor vehicle accident involving a burning vehicle, both officers acted without hesitation,” Kuzma said. “With complete disregard for their own personal safety, they pulled an unconscious driver from the fire, rendered immediate lifesaving aid, and worked with EMS to ensure he was safely transported for further treatment. Their swift actions and calm professionalism directly resulted in the preservation of a human life.”

Kuzma added, “Their commendation is well-deserved and reflects the highest standards of this department.

“We are proud of Patrolman Morrow and Patrolman Nikityuk, and grateful for their unwavering commitment to the people of Kidder Township,” he said.

Morrow, who’s been employed by the department since December 2019 said, “It was just another ordinary night on patrol. We got the call for the accident and responded.

“When we arrived, officer Nikityuk and I saw the flames and the person trapped inside. We did not hesitate to get to action, and swiftly did what needed to be done to get them out to safety.”

Morrow added, “It felt gratifying to be able to save someone’s life. It’s not the first time, and it certainly won’t be the last time, but this incident exemplifies being able to serve and protect the community.

“When it was announced that we were being presented with the Life Saving Commendation, I felt gratitude and pride of our job well done,” Morrow said. “The award presented was a nice token of recognition, even though we were just doing the duties of our job. I would hope that any person wouldn’t hesitate to leap into action and try to save another person’s life.”

Nikityuk, who’s been employed by the department since July 2023, said he arrived on scene to see a vehicle wrapped around a tree that was on fire.

“Without hesitation, officer Morrow and I both grabbed our fire extinguisher and ran to the vehicle. Once closer to the vehicle, I could hear a male yelling for help inside of the vehicle.

“While Officer Morrow used both mine and his fire extinguisher, I attempted to extract the driver of the vehicle who was trapped inside. After some time, I was able to force the door open and located the male near the middle console trapped. His legs were trapped underneath the dashboard, but I was able to force his legs out making him free. Officer Morrow then came over to me, and him and I both grabbed the driver and got the driver out of the vehicle. The driver seemed to be suffering from a leg injury as he stated he couldn’t walk. Officer Morrow and I then placed the drivers arms around our shoulders and supported him to a safer location as the vehicle was still on fire.”

Nikityuk said that shortly after, EMS arrived and took over care for the driver.

“I definitely felt proud for officer Morrow and I, but that’s what being a police officer is for, being there for people that are in need of help and I am just grateful to be the person there for people in need,” Nikityuk said.

“I was definitely surprised when I found out I was being presented an award, because to me saving lives and helping people in need just comes with the job, and I’m very grateful to be the one that can do that. After receiving the award I felt grateful and proud of myself, and hope to help others the same way throughout my career again.”