Latrobe bolstered its police force by hiring a new officer Monday while citing two other officers and a trio of civilians for heroism for rescuing residents and pets in a December house fire.

Jacob Cholock, 27, of Greensburg is joining Latrobe’s department after serving five years with Delmont police.

Police Chief John Sleasman said Cholock rose to the top during the civil service selection process.

“It was obvious from the very beginning, by all the folks in the interview, that he was the best man for the job,” Sleasman said of the new officer. “We’re very glad to have him.”

Cholock fills a vacant position created by the retirement of Sgt. Nunzio Santo Colombo after 36 years with the department and the subsequent promotion of Ronald Keslar to sergeant.

Heroism cited

Sleasman cited police officers Jason Myers and Sean Grosso for their efforts to rescue a mother and child and several pet cats at the scene of a Dec. 22 house fire in the 300 block of Oak Street. Mayor Rosie Wolford also read proclamations honoring the “brave and selfless efforts” of three neighbors who assisted — Vincent Battaglia, Denis Schultz and Jeff Young.

Heavy smoke prevented Myers and Grosso from ascending stairs to the second floor, where the woman and child were trapped, but they were able initially to rescue several pet cats, Sleasman said. While Myers extinguished the flames, Grosso helped the three neighbors use an extension ladder to rescue the two residents from a second-floor window, according to Sleasman.

Wolford and Sleasman expressed thanks to the officers, the civilians and city firefighters who responded to the blaze. “What could have been a catastrophic situation turned out to be a moment where we can celebrate our heroes,” Wolford said.

Latrobe Fire Chief John Brasile noted the response was a team effort. “It doesn’t ever get done without everybody working together,” he said.

Sleasman said city officials are hoping to stock police vehicles with breathing apparatus so officers won’t risk smoke inhalation if they arrive first at a fire scene.

He said officials are weighing types of apparatus while seeking funding to purchase it. The department will need at least six pieces of breathing equipment, priced at up to $2,000 each, he said.

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