Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Illinois Safe

Illinois is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Illinois first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Officer Bartolo Montecinos II (Glen Ellyn) — After a 12-hour night shift, Officer Montecinos of the Glen Ellyn Police Department took a detour on I-355, hoping to spot Lucy, a Bernese Mountain Dog who had been missing for four days. His instincts proved right when he found Lucy sitting against a wall along the highway, just 50 feet from a mile marker where she had last been seen. A devoted dog lover, Montecinos pulled over and safely recovered her, reuniting the grateful family with their beloved pet just in time for Thanksgiving. His dedication and compassion exemplify true heroism, turning a routine drive into a heartwarming rescue. Read more here.

Fire Captain Matt Hornbuckle (Joliet) — While off duty on October 1, 2023, Captain Hornbuckle spotted a house engulfed in flames and immediately sprang into action. Wearing only paintball clothes and flip-flops, he rushed through thick smoke to rescue two first-floor residents before learning a family was trapped in the basement. Charging inside once again, he and the father carried out three children, their mother and later, even their pets. His fearless and selfless actions saved multiple lives, earning him the VFW Firefighter of the Year award and recognition for his extraordinary bravery. Read more here.

Officer Matthew Hunter (Algonquin) — On October 1, 2022, Officer Hunter of the Algonquin Police Department responded to a distress call for an 18-month-old child who had stopped breathing. Arriving before paramedics, he found the baby unresponsive and blue, immediately initiating CPR. His quick and decisive actions successfully revived the child, and he remained by their side until the fire department took over. Hunter was nominated for Officer of the Year and recognized for his lifesaving efforts in a 2023 ceremony. Read more here.

Officer Chance Warnisher (Springfield) — On May 28, 2023, Springfield Police Officer Warnisher rescued an 83-year-old woman from her burning home after spotting flames engulfing the front of the house. When he saw her inside through a broken window but unable to respond, he rushed to the back and forcefully kicked open the rear door. Finding her in the kitchen, he pulled her to safety, preventing what could have been a tragic outcome. His quick thinking, fire awareness, and bravery not only saved her life but also helped minimize further damage to the home. Read more here.

Amanda Garr (Chicago) — In October 2023, 911 dispatcher Amanda Garr played a crucial role in saving the life of retired Chicago firefighter George Ma'Ayteh. When Ma'Ayteh suffered a heart attack and stopped breathing, Garr guided the caller, who had never performed CPR before, through chest compressions over the phone. Her steady instructions helped keep him alive until emergency responders arrived. Days later, it was revealed that Ma'Ayteh had worked with Garr’s father at the Chicago Fire Department for years, making the life-saving moment even more personal. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Illinois to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!