Methuen Fire Lieutenant Receives Hometown Hero Award

Lieutenant Ryan Fortune was honored for rescuing a burn victim during a severe five-alarm fire in Salisbury.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Emergency Response

Methuen Fire Lieutenant Receives Hometown Hero Award

Methuen Fire Lieutenant Ryan Fortune earned a Hometown Hero award for his heroic actions during a destructive five-alarm fire. Fortune is credited with assisting in the rescue of a burn victim while ensuring other residents safely evacuated the area.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the critical impact of off-duty response and emergency preparedness during major residential disasters. By coordinating evacuations amidst thick smoke, the incident underscores the essential role of veteran firefighters in life-saving efforts.

The incident involved a 5-alarm fire that caused severe damage to 4 homes in Salisbury. Two individuals sustained serious injuries during the emergency event.

The players

Ryan Fortune

A veteran lieutenant with 23 years of service in the Methuen Fire Department and a resident of North Andover.

Wellpoint

A health insurance provider that co-sponsored the Hometown Hero award ceremony.

98.5 The Sports Hub Bruins Radio Network

A Boston-area radio network that partnered to present the award honoring local community heroes.

The details

Lieutenant Ryan Fortune, a veteran with 23 years of service in the Methuen Fire Department, intervened after spotting thick black smoke coming from the homes. He personally checked the surrounding properties to confirm evacuations before assisting with the rescue of a victim suffering from burns and smoke exposure.

August 14, 2026: The five-alarm fire occurred in Salisbury.
October 2026: Ryan Fortune was presented with the Hometown Hero award.

Seasonal Patterns

This recognition follows the established pattern of community honors set by the 2026 Hometown Hero award programs. It highlights the continued commitment to acknowledging individuals who demonstrate exceptional bravery during local emergency incidents.

Residents should maintain working smoke detectors and have a clear, rehearsed evacuation plan to ensure safety during structure fires. Identifying two exit paths from every room can significantly improve survival outcomes in dense residential areas.

The takeaway

This event highlights the value of having trained personnel ready to act before formal departments arrive on the scene. Community members can improve their own safety by familiarizing themselves with local emergency procedures and volunteer alert programs.