'Brave' Morris Co. Officer Honored For Efforts In Evening House Fire

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — A Morris County correctional police officer has been recognized for her quick action and bravery during a late-night house fire on Ridgedale Avenue in Morristown last week.

Alyssa Jodexnis was recently lauded by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office for her actions on the night of Aug. 20.

According to police, Jodexnis was heading home after working a double shift at the Morris County Correctional Facility on Sunday at approximately 11:20 p.m. when she noticed smoke on Ridgedale Avenue in Morristown.

She then noticed two men yelling from the front steps of the residence at 56 Ridgedale Avenue, where she saw visible flames coming from the top window. After calling 9-1-1, Jodexnis confirmed that the two men were the only ones inside the residence.

Jodexnis directed the men to a safe area away from the residence, instructing them to remain there and not to enter the building for any reason.

While waiting for police and fire units to respond to the apartment fire, Jodexnis proceeded to evacuate the neighboring apartments. When Morris Township police officers arrived on the scene, they continued to evacuate neighboring apartments until all residents were safe and accounted for.

"Officer Jodexnis is exemplary in her performance. Going beyond expectations in these circumstances after completing an extended tour of duty epitomizes this act of outstanding personal bravery and quick, intelligent thinking in the face of potential danger," Sheriff James M. Gannon said.

According to Morristown FMBA Firefighters Local 43, firefighters from multiple neighboring towns responded to the scene after high levels of carbon monoxide were discovered in a number of neighboring residences, necessitating a collaborative effort from multiple companies to ventilate.

One firefighter was injured while putting out the blaze and taken to the hospital for evaluation, the FMBA said.

Although the cause of the fire has not been released, it does not appear to be suspicious, officials said.

"On behalf of the people of Morris County, I thank you for your actions in this time of need," Gannon said.