Melrose Police Officer Recognized For Feline Fire Rescue

MELROSE, MA — A police officer was recognized this week for his heroic actions during an emergency situation in January.

Officer Jake Karelas was issued a Letter of Commendation from Chief Kevin Faller and other Melrose Police Department leaders on Tuesday. Police and fire crews responded to a power line fire on Penney Road that had spread to a nearby home on Saturday, Jan. 31 shortly after 3 a.m. According to the police department, Karelas was the first person on scene of the incident and tried unsuccessfully to put out the blaze with his department-issued fire extinguisher. Three residents who had successfully evacuated from the house told Karelas that two cats, Grady and Baby, were likely still inside in the basement of the home.

Karelas then reportedly entered the house immediately and headed for the basements to locate the cats. In approximately 10 minutes, he retrieved both animals safely, making multiple trips inside the home.

"His instincts to save a life, whether human or animal, reflects his dedication and commitment to his profession," Resident of the home Mary Lou McVane said about Karelas.

Faller said Karelas’s actions were “above and beyond” and commended him for his decisiveness.
"I am sure the family is going through some difficult times as a result of this fire, but this could have been an even more traumatic situation without the quick actions of Officer Karelas,” Faller said.

Karelas is a life-long Melrose resident and graduate of Melrose High School. He became a patrol officer for the department in July 2024 following his graduation from the state’s training academy in Lynnfield.

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