Two heroic police officers were honored at an NYPD ceremony on Friday for their brave actions during a house fire in Queens last month, where they saved two sleeping residents.
Emergency Services Unit Detective Daniel Donvolt, 38, and Sergeant Brian J. Verry, 34, acted decisively on July 16, breaking down the door and ensuring the victims were safe. At a crowded One Police Plaza event, Chief Jessica Tish commended them as being among “the best.”
Donvolt, who also serves as a volunteer firefighter from Long Island, emphasized that staying calm is crucial in such high-pressure situations. “It’s a smoky environment. A lot goes through your head,” he shared, reflecting on that intense moment.
“I’ve always wanted to be an emergency cop. Maybe it’s a calling,” he remarked in front of the large assembly. “You need to have the skills to remain composed when things get chaotic.”
He expressed gratitude for the recognition that came with their promotion, feeling honored to serve in such a capacity.
Verry mentioned that finding the man and woman in the basement amid the flames was a relief. “They seemed really grateful to be pulled out safely,” he recalled, reflecting on that frightening day.
On that day, while patrolling in Jamaica, they both suited up, ready for action as part of ESU Truck 9.
The body camera footage captured their courage as they ventured into the blaze. Donvolt, armed with an air tank and a Harrigan tool, quickly maneuvered through the smoke-filled house, while Verry supported him with a pressurized water can.
Wearing oxygen masks, they pried open the door and immediately began searching for the trapped individuals.
They soon found the two residents asleep downstairs and acted swiftly to guide them outside to safety.
During the ceremony, Tish highlighted the bravery and training of Donvolt and Verry, recognizing that they didn’t wait for the fire department to respond.
“Without any hesitation, they entered the burning structure, moving from one room to the next in search of survivors,” she emphasized. “Officers like Brian and Dan confront extraordinary situations with remarkable bravery.”
