'I thank God for you': Double amputee who survived fire meets officer who saved him

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Friday, February 27, 2026
Double amputee who survived fire meets officer who saved him

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Philadelphia police sergeant who carried a double amputee down a stairwell to safety during a hotel fire was reunited Thursday with the man he rescued.

In October, Ralph Duy was on the 12th floor of the Holiday Inn on Penrose Avenue when a fire alarm went off and the elevators shut down.

The building was evacuated, but Duy was unable to get out on his own.

READ MORE | Philadelphia police sergeant carries man to safety during high-rise hotel fire

A Philadelphia police sergeant climbed 12 floors of a South Philadelphia hotel to evacuate guests during a fire.

Sergeant Joseph Boyle was on scene and carried Duy down 12 flights of stairs and out of the burning building.

"I just thank God for you. I really do," Duy told Boyle during their reunion.

Duy said he had been staying at the hotel while attending a conference for people who have experienced amputations, adding that the incident underscores the importance of accessible and safe accommodations for all.

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