Lt. Keith Burke was at a fire on December 22, 2004. He was on an immediate search for anyone in the burning building.
Entering the second floor, Burke encountered heavy smoke and moderate heat. He began searching through the living room and moved on to the front bedroom rapidly sweeping the rooms. He found a bed but no victims. Blankets were strewn all over the floor. He removed one glove to make sure he could feel anyone under the blankets. He then felt a body and grabbed the victim under her arms. He had to drag her out of the room. With the assistance of Sean McKinnie and Michael Wisiniewski, they carried her through the living room to the second floor stairs. They adjusted her at the stairs and brought her down to an awaiting stretcher.
Burke's actions gave the victim a fighting chance for survival. However, the 12-year-old died three days later on Christmas Day.
The 100 Club of Buffalo recognizes Lt. Keith Burke for his heroic action on December 22, 2004.
