Millburn, United States - October 27, 2024 In a dramatic early morning rescue, officers from the Millburn Police Department sprang into action to save an 83-year-old woman trapped inside a burning home on Sunday just before 3 a.m. The incident occurred at 18 Old Short Hills Road, igniting a race against time for the responding officers. A passing driver alerted authorities after spotting the flames engulfing the residence. Upon arrival, officers discovered that two other residents, a mother and daughter, had managed to escape on their own but were horrified to learn that the elderly woman remained inside as the fire raged on. Braving thick smoke and intense heat, Officer Thomas Sweeney, who joined the force just four months ago, crawled through the back of the house to locate the trapped woman. "She was laying down, and it was more of a groan because she was in and out of consciousness due to the heavy smoke. We had to get low and crawled about eight to ten feet to find her," Sweeney recounted. With the assistance of Officers David Frisch and Steve Nacim, they carried the woman to safety and administered first aid as they rushed her out of the house. Remarkably, the entire rescue unfolded in just 60 seconds. The 83-year-old woman, who suffered burns and smoke inhalation, along with the other two residents, was transported to a local hospital for treatment. "The actions of Officer Sweeney, Officer Nacim, and Officer Frisch exemplify the dedication and courage of our police department," said Chief Gilfedder. "Their swift response and determination saved a life today, and we commend them for their bravery." The Millburn Fire Department quickly arrived on the scene to extinguish the fire, which had spread to a car in the driveway and also threatened the neighboring home. One firefighter experienced a medical issue, and another police officer suffered from smoke inhalation; both were taken to the hospital for evaluation.