Broken‑handed man couldn’t use a ladder to rescue neighbors from a burning house — he pulled a risky stunt that left a family forever grateful
When disaster strikes, a tight-knit community can step in to protect each other even in the face of raging fire. Steven Angelini, a Baltimore resident, had previously suffered an arm injury. But on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, when he noticed his next-door neighbor's house caught on fire, he did not hesitate to rescue the mother and her two children trapped inside. The brave way of risking his life to save the family had the community hailing him as their neighborhood hero. As reported by WMAR on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the stunt he pulled with a broken arm was captured on camera.
Steven Angelini was sleeping in his home when he heard sounds coming from the two-storey house across the street. As he looked at the Ring camera, he witnessed the horror of the house engulfed in flames. The camera captured his next move. Without a second thought, the man jumped out of his house to save the lives. While he attempted to climb up and use a ladder, his broken arm came in the way. However, he did not lose hope. He urged the mother to drop her children so he could help them get out of the house. Once he got both children to safety, other neighbors brought a ladder to assist the mother in getting down. But the family dog lost its life in the ordeal. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
"I don't mind putting my life on the line for others," he remarked. Soon, the Baltimore County Fire Department arrived at the scene and put out the fire. Angelini was appreciated by the Baltimore County Fire Chief Joseph Dixon, along with the community, for his selfless act. The fire department that shared the post on Facebook wrote, "Before our fire and EMS crews arrived, neighbors acted without hesitation to help a mother and her children escape a dangerous situation. I want to thank these residents for their courage and selflessness and commend our crews for their swift response in extinguishing the fire and providing medical support."
According to a 2020 report published in the Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, the researchers outlined the importance of the behavior of a bystander during emergencies. The study suggested that before first responders arrive, bystanders must offer help. This highlighted how social context and community bonds influence the likelihood of helping. By stepping forward to save lives, Angelini exemplified quick thinking during a dangerous situation. Fortunately, the mother and the kids were rescued with only minor injuries. As for Angelini, he believes that God places him in moments where he is meant to help others. "I did what anyone else would do for my family." Per GMA, the community has since organized donations to provide clothing for the family.