House fire heroism | From the Newsroom

Lengthy murder sentence; more help for coal communities

Email not displaying correctly? View the web version

A job well done Quick-thinking neighbors and quick action by Montrose Police Officer Tyler Cunningham last week prevented a bad situation from turning worse. As was reported, Cunningham kicked in the door of a burning unit in a 4-plex off White House and Ouray Drives March 18, and carried the older, wheelchair-using woman who lived there to safety. The police department subsequently shared a clip of Cunningham's body camera footage, showing him running up, and neighbors alerting him to the woman trapped in her home. The clip also shows Cunningham kicking the door, and calling out to the woman, who he lifts up and removes from the burning unit. (Technical difficulties precluded us from sharing it online.) There was a whole lot of heroism that day, from Cunningham's actions, to neighbors who helped neighbors, and the swift response of firefighters and paramedics. We later reached another one of the 4-plex residents, all of whom were displaced because of smoke damage. I'd like to share what she told us in a written message. I think her words perfectly illustrate how the village concept takes care of folks: " ... I am glad all residents made it out safe. I would like to thank the neighbor in Unit D for arriving at the perfect time. I believe he was the one that reported the fire and made sure to get our attention immediately. I would like to thank the first responders for obvious reasons, as well as Montrose fire department for being very kind and informative on what was going on and what events would happen in the next coming hours to next couple of days. The individuals who represented the Red Cross were very caring and compassionate, and started offering their care and resources as soon as they arrived on site. I would also like to thank Area Best Property management for their overwhelming support for everyone involved. They have already secured new units for all of us to live and have participated in paying for a few nights at the hotel we are currently in. John with Area Best arrived that night and assured us that we would all be taken care of and did not have to worry about not having a place to stay. I can't be more thankful for his support." (The burning unit, upon Cunningham's approach/courtesy MPD) (Foot meets door/courtesy MPD) (A view of the aftermath, showing rear side of 4-plex on March 19. Daily Press photo) - Katharhynn, from the Newsroom

INVEST IN YOUR LOCAL JOURNALISM Just $2.15 per week - Become a member of your community today.

'An evil act': Man sentenced to nearly 200 years for 2023 stabbing death. Sentence might not be final word, as proportionality review and appeal in works Duane Hamn — a beloved family man who was so committed to the role that he even kept track of his adult nieces' book and jewelry preferences — died as he lived: helping others. On Friday, Corbin Lovato, the man… Read More MCA presents its first regional juried art show — Elements of Art Montrose Center for Arts (MCA) is proud to present its first regional juried exhibit showcasing talent from all over Colorado. MCA artists, as well as artists from all over the Western Slope, will explore the seven Elements of Art —… Read More Catlin's coal transition community investment bill signed into law Communities in line to receive settlements or other payments for having lost coal mines and/or coal-powered generation industry will soon be able to invest that money in less restrictive ways, potentially seeing more benefits, because of a bipartisan bill signed… Read More

Click here to unsubscribe and manage your email subscriptions. Montrose Press 3684 N Townsend Ave, MONTROSE, CO 81401