Bodycam footage shows Mishawaka police rescue man from burning apartment
By: -----
Mishawaka, IN - Body camera footage shows officers with the Mishawaka Police Department saving a man from a burning apartment on Sunday.
Police said the resident was inside with his oxygen equipment and was unable to move. Officers Richard Freeman and Rachel Corona were able to help the man to safety.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire.
“On Sunday, April 19, just before 8:00 a.m., Mishawaka Police and the Mishawaka Fire Department were dispatched to the 700 block of Liberty Avenue for a reported apartment fire.
Officers Richard Freeman and Rachel Corona arrived within minutes and quickly identified the apartment where the fire was actively burning. Without hesitation, they made entry into the residence, which was starting to fill with smoke and flames.
Inside, they located the sole occupant, who was unable to move. Despite the extreme danger—heightened by the presence of oxygen equipment inside the apartment—Officers Freeman and Corona safely carried the resident out and brought them to safety.
Their actions required tremendous courage, quick decision-making, and selflessness. Entering an active fire scene is never without risk, and the added hazard of oxygen in the environment made this situation even more dangerous.
Through it all, both officers remained calm, focused, and professional.
Because of their bravery and commitment to protecting life, a resident is alive today.
Please join us in recognizing Officers Freeman and Corona for their heroic actions and dedication to serving the Mishawaka community.”