Heroes: Fire, Police Captains Rescue Caged Canine In Smoky Hackensack House Fire

Smoke filled the living room of a Hackensack home Thursday afternoon as two captains from their respective departments crawled their way along the floor.

Hackensack Police Capt. Michael Antista (left), Fire Capt. Rich Katz
Photo Credit: *HACKENSACK PD/FD*

One resident had a bit of difficulty breathing but otherwise no injuries were reported. A possible cause wasn't immediately reported.
Photo Credit: *HACKENSACK PD*

Jerry DeMarco

05/18/2023 4:14 p.m.

Fire Capt. Rich Katz and Police Capt. Michael Antista were in the area when the call came in shortly before 1:30 p.m. May 18.

They pulled up to the two-story Brook Street home find smoke and anxious residents waving them down

Ginger, a chocolate Lab, was trapped inside.

Katz and Antista got Ginger out of her first-floor cage, then turned a garden house on the living room flames, keeping them contained, until firefighters doused the blaze moments later.

A possible cause wasn't immediately reported.

One resident had a bit of difficulty breathing but otherwise no injuries were reported. Ginger was fine, neighbors said.

The city police department called the tag-team rescue by Katz and Antista an "incredible display of bravery and collaboration. Their combined expertise and selfless actions exemplify the true essence of heroism."

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