Hillsborough Cop Honored For Evacuating Family, Rescuing Dog During Barn Fire

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough Police Officer Christopher Weckenman was honored on Tuesday for his heroic actions during a barn fire earlier this month.

At the Township Committee meeting, Mayor Catherine Payne presented Weckenman with a proclamation.

On May 9, just before 4 p.m., Weckenman was on his way to the 2026 Police Unity Tour when he saw a fire at 889 Amwell Road with flames coming out of the rear barn window.

Weckenman went to the back of the property to make sure that no children or animals were inside the burning barn.

He then contacted 911 and provided updates on the status of the fire while also removing power equipment and a gas can full of fuel from the burning barn, preventing the further spread of the fire, according to the proclamation.

Weckenman made contact with the homeowner on his second try and evacuated everyone in the home.

While waiting for the fire department, Weckenman helped with traffic and also picked up a small Dachshund dog who was frightened and running into traffic, according to the proclamation.

"Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that we, the Mayor and Hillsborough Township Committee, do hereby
recognize the heroic efforts of Patrolman Christopher Weckenman, appreciate his commitment to the residents of
Hillsborough, and congratulate him for being a shining member of our community," according to the proclamation.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.