Conn. Responders Save Paralyzed Man From Fire

March 26--DERBY -- Emergency personnel were commended by Fire Chief Tom Lenart Monday for rescuing a paralyzed man from a fire Friday evening on the second floor of 130 Main St.

Lenart said firefighter Mike Tracz Sr., owner of Tracy's Garage on Water Street, climbed the back stairs of the apartment building, kicked the door in and found the 50-year old tenant, Edward Minerly, on the floor.

Tracz was not wearing any breathing apparatus but was able to get the man out the back door, Lenart said.

Firefighter Mike Tracz Jr. arrived and helped his father, with assistance by firefighter Brian Mezzapelle and an auxiliary policeman, Lenart said. The men were able to carry the tenant down two flights of stairs.

Lenart said Minerly's wife had escaped and was across the street.

He said Mike Tracz Sr. returned and rescued the couple's dog. No one was injured.

Lenart said the fire started in the front apartment. The rescue was achieved "early on, before there were any hose lines down," Lenart said.

"They did a fantastic job," Minerly said Monday.

Minerly also thanked the American Red Cross for getting the couple a place to stay and the staff at Courtyard by Marriott in Shelton for allowing them to stay three additional nights.

The couple was treated for smoke inhalation Friday night at Griffin Hospital in Derby.

Lenart said the fire began about 7:08 p.m. He credited quick work of firefighters in knocking down the blaze. City firefighters were assisted by Shelton and Seymour, Lenart said.

The liquor store on the first floor received smoke and water damage.

Copyright 2013 - New Haven Register, Conn.