Seneca Valley graduate recognized for lifesaving courage during home fire
When flames tore through his family’s home on April 21, Michael Santiago Lecorchick remained even-keeled in the face of immediate danger.
The recent Seneca Valley graduate and Cranberry Township resident knew exactly what to do, leaping into action and running up the stairs through the smoke to save his father’s life before quickly fleeing to safety just in time.
In recognition of his selfless act, members of the township’s volunteer fire company honored the teenager with a miniature memorial statue and a rare challenge coin that serves as a token of respect and admiration. The coin was only the eighth one handed out by the local department.
“Michael’s actions represent the highest standard of bravery,” said Scott Garing, the township’s chief of fire and emergency services. “His quick thinking and unwavering courage in the face of danger turned what could have been a tragedy into a true story of heroism. His selfless acts deserve public recognition — not only for the life that he saved — but for the incredible character that he demonstrated in the actions.”
Additionally, Lecorchick received a citation from Rep. Stephenie Scialabba, R-12th, that memorializes the event and marks his courageous spirit.
The blaze, which was sparked by overturned grill coals, broke out shortly after midnight April 21 at the two-story home along the 1700 block of Garvin Road. Nearly everything inside was destroyed, and Garing ruled the home a “total loss” later that morning.
In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, the Cranberry community was quick to lend a helping hand.
The owners of Henry’s Meat Market — where Lecorchick worked through a work-study program — launched a GoFundMe that raised $29,729, nearly doubling an original goal of $15,000.
As his family continues to rebuild, Lecorchick is looking ahead. He plans to attend Clarion University this fall to study sociology, with a goal of one day becoming a therapist to assist others through their own struggles.
Township supervisors agreed that he’s already cut out for the profession.
“Your actions that evening were quite courageous, but that’s not what I noticed the most,” Chairman Bruce Hezlep told Lecorchick. “I noticed a young man that was very composed and telling his family, ‘Everything’s going to be OK’. Yeah, you’ve lost a lot of belongings, but everybody in your family is with you still. I commend you for what you did — not only for the actions that you took — but for the level headedness and compassion.”
