CASA GRANDE, AZ — In a dramatic early morning rescue last month, Casa Grande Police Officer Joshua Samuel saved a resident’s life by ripping off a steel security door as flames engulfed the victim’s home. Now, his actions have earned him a nomination for the prestigious 2025 AXON RISE Award.
On December 13, 2024, at approximately 4:55 a.m., Officer Samuel responded to reports of a structure fire in the 100 block of East Ash Avenue. Upon arrival, he heard cries for help coming from the rear of the burning residence. Following the voice, Samuel discovered a man trapped behind a back door that was secured with a padlocked steel security door.
With heavy smoke and heat already threatening the home, Officer Samuel attempted to break the padlock while maintaining communication with the trapped resident. When those efforts proved unsuccessful, Samuel took decisive action, physically tearing the entire steel door from its frame to free the homeowner.
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Additional Casa Grande Police Department officers arrived on scene to verify no other occupants remained in the house. The Casa Grande Fire Department successfully contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to neighboring properties, though the victim’s house was destroyed.
The rescued homeowner received medical evaluation and treatment at the scene. Three police officers were evaluated for smoke inhalation, with two, including Officer Samuel, requiring transport to Banner Casa Grande Hospital. Samuel also sustained lacerations to both hands and burn blisters on one hand during the rescue. All injured parties are expected to make full recoveries.
Samuel is one of 20 finalists being considered for the AXON RISE Award, which honors exceptional first responders across the United States. The winner will be determined through a combination of public voting and judge evaluation, with voting open through January 27, 2025. The top recipients will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Axon Week in Phoenix this April, along with a $1,000 valued gift and an Axon Roadshow celebration.
