Standing Ovation by Ovation Riding: Hilltown Township, PA Police Department

Every week Horse Nation teams up with Ovation Riding to recognize those doing good in the horse world. Today we recognize Officer Matthew Reiss and Officer Kristian Hanus, who rushed into a burning barn to save a horse during a barn fire. 

Photo courtesy of the Hilltown Township Police Department

For most of us, a barn fire is one of our biggest fears — especially when our horses are in their stalls. We’ve seen the news reports and heard the tragedies of people losing their animals in a barn fire and can’t help but shiver at the thought.

For a family in Hilltown Township in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that fear became a reality on the morning of July 23, 2020.

According to the Hilltown Township Police Department, the Hilltown Police responded to a barn fire at 10:38 a.m. Upon arrival, the officers found a large barn filled with smoke and visible flames. Those on the scene notified the responding officers that there was still a horse inside the burning barn.

Officer Matthew Reiss and Officer Kristian Hanus did not hesitate to enter the barn in order to rescue the frightened horse.

After some goading and with the assistance of one of the barn workers, they were able to get the horse to safety. Both officers received minor injuries. Fortunately all people and animals were safe.

Our proverbial hat goes off to Officer Reiss and Officer Hanus. Their bravery and willingness to put themselves at risk for a scared horse certainly deserve this week’s standing ovation.

Many thanks thanks to Ovation Riding for their support of both Horse Nation and individuals and organizations that are doing good work in the horse world. If you know someone who deserves a Standing Ovation, we would love to recognize them in a future post. Email the name of the person or organization along with a message about the good work they do to [email protected]. Photos/videos are always welcome, and include a link to their website if applicable.