D.C. Police Officers Named NLEOMF Officers of the Month for December for Fire Rescue
What to Know
- Officers responded before fire crews and entered a smoke-filled house to rescue a trapped resident.
- Despite no formal fire training, their quick thinking led to a successful life-saving operation.
- The resident was treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries after being removed from danger.
WASHINGTON -- The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund has named three members of the Metropolitan Police Department as its Officers of the Month for December 2025, citing their actions during a residential fire response in Washington, D.C.
Officer Tevfik Koksaldi, Officer Nellie Carela and Officer Samuel Morgan IV were recognized for conducting a life-saving rescue on Dec. 23, 2025, after responding to a reported house fire.
According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, the officers arrived before fire personnel and heard a person trapped inside the smoke-filled home. Without formal fire training, the officers entered the residence and located the resident near the entrance, trapped under debris. Working together, they removed the individual from the hazardous environment.
The resident was transported by ambulance for treatment of smoke inhalation and sustained minor injuries, according to the organization.
“The quick thinking and decisive actions of these officers exemplify the commitment law enforcement officers demonstrate to protect life under dangerous conditions,” said Bill Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “Their professionalism and teamwork in this critical situation meet the highest standards of duty and service and we are honored to name them our Officers of the Month for December 2025.”
For law enforcement agencies, the incident underscores the operational reality that patrol officers are often first on scene at structure fires, particularly in urban jurisdictions. While not a substitute for fire suppression operations, immediate action to remove occupants from imminent danger can have life-saving consequences when conditions allow. The recognition highlights the importance of interagency coordination, situational assessment and officer safety protocols when responding to fire-related emergencies.
The Officer of the Month Award Program, sponsored by the Police Unity Tour, recognizes federal, state and local officers for exemplary service and devotion to duty.