Off-Duty Wareham Police officer races into burning building to check for occupants; rescues dog

On Friday, May 8, at about 4:05 p.m. Wareham Police Communications Officers Nicolle Amaral and Scott McDaniel began receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a fire on Cranberry Highway near McDonald’s restaurant. Onset Fire Department was notified and Wareham Police officers responded to assist.

Officer Christopher Corner had just left the police station, was off-duty, and observed the smoke in the sky while traveling on Cranberry Highway. Officer Corner determined that a home was on fire in the Silver Lake Mobile Home Park and observed neighbors who had forced open a door. He immediately responded by entering the burning building to check for occupants, and in the process located a dog that was safely removed.

In addition, Officer Corner was able to provide incoming emergency responders updated information by radio. Additional police officers responded, assisting fire personnel and redirecting traffic.

Chief of Police John Walcek said, “Chris jumped into action even after working a double shift on patrol. He is an excellent police officer who gives 100 percent all of the time.”

The dog was returned to the owner unharmed.