Crime & Safety
Grundy County, IL: Deputy Honored After Rushing Into Burning Home Twice
Morris, IL — A Grundy County sheriff's deputy is being recognized with two prestigious awards after risking his life during a house fire in Morris, southwest of Chicago, returning to a burning residen
By Jenna Hartley · 2026-10-14T01:22:14.135Z
Morris, IL — A Grundy County sheriff 's deputy is being recognized with two prestigious awards after risking his life during a house fire in Morris, southwest of Chicago, returning to a burning residence despite suffering injuries while trying to rescue a trapped man.
According to the Grundy County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Chad P. Hrechko received the Medal of Valor and Lifesaving Award for his actions during a residential fire on May 29, 2026, in the 1000 block of Armstrong Street.
When Hrechko arrived, he learned that a bedridden resident who had both legs amputated below the knee was trapped inside the burning home.
Recognizing the immediate danger, Hrechko forced his way into the smoke filled residence and began searching for the man.
Despite rapidly deteriorating conditions and severely limited visibility, the deputy located the resident and attempted to move him toward safety.
During the rescue, Hrechko suffered multiple dog bites to his legs but continued working to free the trapped man.
As smoke intensified, he became disoriented and was forced to leave the structure.
Rather than abandon the rescue, Hrechko entered the burning home a second time.
Working alongside responding Morris Police Department officers, he helped successfully remove the resident from the residence.
The deputy suffered smoke inhalation and dog bite injuries requiring medical evaluation and treatment.
Grundy County Sheriff Ken Briley praised Hrechko's determination and willingness to put another person's life ahead of his own.
"Even after being injured and forced out of the burning home, he refused to give up on someone who desperately needed help," Briley said.
The Medal of Valor recognizes extraordinary bravery involving serious personal danger, while the Lifesaving Award honors actions directly contributing to saving a human life.
The sheriff's office said both honors recognize Hrechko's exceptional courage and commitment to protecting others.
Source: Grundy County Sheriff's Office, official public recognition announcement.