Rookie Copper’s Heroic Blaze Rescue Lands Him Bravery Award Nod
Six months into the job, Northamptonshire Police’s PC Taylor Ladner stunned everyone with a bold rescue from a blazing house. Now, his daring act has earned him a nomination for The National Police Bravery Awards.
From Domestic Call to Fiery Nightmare
On October 25, 2018, student constable Taylor Ladner was sent to wellingborough/" title="Wellingborough" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Wellingborough over reports of a woman assaulting a man. But what greeted him was far worse – the house was engulfed in flames.
While Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service raced to the scene, PC Ladner knew every second counted. Without backup, he charged straight into the smoke and heat.
Against All Odds: Woman Rescued from Fire
Inside, he found a woman determined to end her life, refusing to cooperate. Battling the inferno, Ladner dragged her to safety, pulling her from the burning wreckage and saving her life.
The arsonist was later convicted and handed a 12-month suspended sentence, alongside rehabilitation orders.
Police Praise Rookie’s Bravery
Northamptonshire Police Federation Chairman Sam Dobbs said: “He was alone on arrival, with no backup and before the fire service arrived. Taylor put his own safety second to that of the public, even though the woman was uncooperative and intent on self-harm.”
“His courage was exemplary without being reckless. For a new officer, this is a truly worthy nomination.”
Next Stop: London Awards Ceremony
The National Police Bravery Awards celebrate the bravest officers across England and Wales, regardless of whether they are on or off duty.
PC Ladner will be honoured at the prestigious awards ceremony in London this July 2021, spotlighting his fearless act that went above and beyond the call of duty.