Hometown Hero: North Babylon Teen Honored With Heroism Award

NORTH BABYLON, NY — North Babylon has a true hometown hero—and he's just 17.

His name is Richard Kerr, a 17-year-old resident of North Babylon who was presented with the Town of Babylon's Heroism Award—the Town’s highest honor—for helping a car crash victim last year.

One evening in April 2023, Kerr was outside his home with his siblings when a loud crash caught his attention. Instinctively, Kerr ran to the scene and found a car wrecked on a nearby lawn.

Kerr sprung into action and pried the passenger door open to help the driver and allowed a bystander—who happened to be a nurse—to check the driver’s pulse before paramedics arrived.

"Richard Kerr's actions on that night were nothing short of heroic. In the face of an incredibly dangerous situation, he did not hesitate to help someone in need," said Schaffer. "His courage and selflessness are an inspiration to us all, and it is our honor to recognize him with this award."

Kerr's instinct to help left him with glass cuts on his hands and he "exemplified the courage and compassion that define true heroism," the town said.

While the driver tragically did not survive, Kerr's "immediate response was critical in ensuring every possible effort was made to save a life."

Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez, Councilman Terence McSweeney and Suffolk County Family Court Judge Fernando Camacho presented Kerr with the award at a recent ceremony at Babylon Town Hall.