Lacey Officer Honored for Saving Pregnant Woman from Fire

A Lacey Township police officer who saved a pregnant woman from a house fire last month received honors from the state legislature, local officials and Rep. Jon Runyan for his heroics.

Officer Michael Eden rescued 28-year-old Brittany Bodzak while she was trapped within the Lane Place home during the Oct. 18 blaze.

After hearing her screaming that she couldn’t find a way out, Eden kicked over a section of fencing, then smashed a window to a bedroom with his arm, police said at the time. After breaking through the window – and while thick smoke was billowing out of the window – Eden climbed halfway into the house while continuing to yell for the woman.

Though they couldn't see each other, Bodzak was able to make her way to Eden, who quickly pulled her through the window to safety.

Eden was released from the hospital a few hours later after receiving testing and treatment for smoke inhalation, officials said.

Eden was honored Thursday night at the Lacey Township Committee meeting by state Sen. Chris Connors and Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf, and Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove (all R-Ocean).

Eden was awarded the Medal of Valor by Chief David A. Paprota, and received a Proclamation from the Mayor and Township Committee.

Runyan also forwarded a Congressional proclamation which was presented by the Township Committee to Eden at the meeting along with a letter from Gov. Chris Christie.

"It was a very special night for the Eden family along with his extended family – each and every member of the Lacey Township Police Department," said Paprota.

The rest of the Bodzak family – there were a total of six people living at the home, including Bodzak's parents – escaped the home safely. The family's two dogs also got out before the home was consumed.

The Forked River Fire Company ultimately responded and extinguished the fire.