When James John Vlacich realized that his neighbor’s house on Manhasset Trail in Ridge was on fire he quickly jumped into action. Vlacich entered the home, engulfed in flames, and carried his neighbor out to safety. The unidentified woman, described as being seriously injured, was treated by a Ridge Fire Department Ambulance crew and then transported to Stony Brook University Hospital.

 

“Mr. Vlacich is a true hero for bravely risking his life to save his neighbor from further harm,” said Councilwoman Bonner. “It is important that people like him are recognized for their heroism when faced with a life-threatening situation. We should all be as good a neighbor as he is.”

 

Pictured left to right are (back row) Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Councilman Kevin LaValle; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Supervisor Ed Romaine; James John Vlacich; Councilman Dan Panico; Councilman Michael Loguercio; Councilman Neil Foley and Town Clerk Donna Lent. Front row are members of the injured woman’s family (left to right) Jack Sherwood (nephew), Audrey Sherwood, (niece) and Bridget Sherwood (niece).