The Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) is pleased to announce Sergeant Luis Dominguez and Officer Edward Orrett have been awarded the departmental Bronze Medal of Valor and Lifesaving Award and selected to share Distinguished Officer of the Month honors for October 2007.  Sergeant Dominguez has been a Department member for 9 years, while Officer Orrett is a 33-year veteran.  Both are assigned to the Midwest District.

On July 24, 2007, at 1:45 a.m., Sergeant Dominguez and Officer Orrett responded to a residential fire at 7265 SW 22 Street.  Heavy smoke emanated from inside the residence and the building was partially engulfed.   The occupant was heard yelling for help from inside the burning residence.  As Miami-Dade Fire Department had not yet arrived, Sergeant Dominguez and Officer Orrett forced their way into the burning house and located the victim in the master bedroom.  Due to his disoriented state, they had to physically remove him from danger.   

Upon hearing that another resident lived at the rear of the house and was possibly still inside, Sergeant Dominguez and Officer Orrett went through a separate entrance and discovered the occupant, Mr. Rey, asleep.  They woke him and escorted him outside.  Miami-Dade Fire Rescue treated both victims for smoke inhalation.  Two other occupants made it to safety on their own.

In the face of personal danger, Sergeant Dominguez and Officer Orrett saved the lives of two citizens. 

Prepared by:
Sandra G. Kramer
Media Relations Bureau