The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners along with Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr and the Lakewood Fire Department is proud to recognize the heroic actions of its firefighters following a life-saving rescue at an assisted living facility on March 16, 2025.

At approximately 20:14 hours on March 16, 2025, Lakewood Fire Department’s Engine 5 and Ladder 5 were dispatched to a fire alarm activation at Leisure Park located at 1400 NJ-70, Lakewood, NJ. Engine 5 arrived on the scene within four minutes and began investigating the source of the alarm of what initially seemed like a routine call and quickly determined that the alarm originated from an apartment on the fifth floor.

Upon reaching the fifth floor, Engine 5 members Lieutenant Robert Cook and Probationary Firefighter Andrew Sanchez encountered smoke and water seeping from the apartment door. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Lt. Cook upgraded the response to a working fire assignment and entered the burning apartment to conduct a primary search. Despite intense heat and heavy smoke, they located an occupant in her bed, unable to escape.

The firefighters quickly rescued the woman and brought her to safety. Meanwhile, Ladder 5 arrived to assist with extinguishing the fire, secured the power to the apartment and assisted Engine 5 with shutting down the fire pump and sprinkler system on the fifth floor.

“This is the reason we treat every fire alarm with the same urgency,” said Chief Yahr. “The first-arriving firefighters from Engine 5 heroically rescued an individual from the burning apartment. They safely removed her from the fire and handed her over to EMS, who transported her to receive medical attention. She is now in stable condition.”

Thanks to the rapid response and teamwork of Lakewood Fire Department personnel, the fire was contained, and a life was saved.

“The quick actions of our firefighters exemplify their dedication to protecting lives and property and keeping our community safe,” Chief Yahr added. “Their bravery and professionalism prevented a tragedy and are a testament to the training and commitment of our department.”

In recognition of their bravery and life-saving actions, the Lakewood Fire Department will be nominating Lieutenant Cook and Firefighter Sanchez for a Life Saving Award from the 200 Club of Ocean County.

The Lakewood Fire Department is proud of its firefighters for their dedication and service to the community and commends all personnel involved for their outstanding performance and dedication to public safety.