Austin Police Officer Honored for Heroic Rescue in Apartment Fire Incident

Austin Police Interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson announced Officer Joseph Henry Hethershaw as the employee of the week for his heroic actions on December 17, 2023. Officer Hethershaw responded to a Disturbance Urgent call where a family member, in the midst of a mental crisis, had set fire to clothes in an apartment.

Upon arrival, Officer Hethershaw found that the residence was filled with smoke. With the help of other officers, Officer Hethershaw ensured the safe evacuation of the rest of the family. However, the family member in crisis could not be found and was believed to still be inside. Despite the significant risk to his well-being, Officer Hethershaw bravely entered the building along with his fellow officers to extinguish the fire. They searched the residence to ensure that there was no risk of another fire and to locate the missing family member.

Officer Hethershaw’s selfless actions ultimately led to the safe rescue of the individual in crisis. Following the incident, Officer Hethershaw was transported to a local hospital due to smoke inhalation, he was discharged later and is currently in good health.

“We express out deepest gratitude for Officer Hethershaw’s heroic response in saving the life of someone in dire need.”