Two Geneseo teenagers are being credited with saving a neighbor’s life after rushing to help during a late-night house fire on Jan. 26.

Olivia Sallech(left), Mayor Sean Johnson, Taylor Smith, Mike Cherry(right)

At approximately 10 p.m., Olivia Sallach and Taylor Smith were preparing to leave a residence on East Pearl Street when they heard an explosion in the bitter cold. Instead of moving away from the sound, the teens investigated and saw flames coming from a neighboring home’s basement windows, with smoke spreading through the main floor.

According to officials, the pair immediately ran to the house and began pounding on doors in an effort to alert anyone inside. Their efforts awakened the homeowner, Mike Cherry, who had been asleep as smoke filled the residence.

Disoriented, Cherry made his way toward the back of the house, where Olivia and Taylor helped guide him safely away from the burning structure. With temperatures below freezing, they remained with him outside, providing extra clothing and support until help arrived.

Cherry later told responding officers that the teens’ actions saved his life.

On Tuesday, February 10th, City leaders praised the pair’s quick response and selflessness, calling their actions an example of Geneseo’s strong neighborly values. Officials said the teens demonstrated unusual courage by moving toward danger and taking immediate action during the emergency.

Olivia and Taylor were formally recognized with an official commendation for their lifesaving efforts.