City of Greendale Honors Matt and Erin Wuestefeld for Heroic Actions During House Fire

Matt and Erin Wuestefeld were recognized for their courageous and selfless actions.

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(Greendale, IN) - Greendale City Council and Mayor Vince Karsteter formally recognized Matt and Erin Wuestefeld for their courageous and selfless actions during a March 15 house fire in Greendale. 

During the meeting, the mayor presented the couple with an official proclamation honoring their quick thinking and bravery. The presentation included the Wuestefelds, Mayor Karsteter, and Tony and Kelly Schroder whose granddaughter, and daughter-in-law were rescued from the fire.

According to the proclamation, Matt and Erin Wuestefeld were returning home on March 15 when they noticed smoke and flames coming from a residence in their neighborhood. The couple immediately stopped to help. Matt alerted the occupants to the fire and assisted a mother and her infant child out of the home and to safety. The proclamation also recognized Matt Wuestefeld for reentering the residence to retrieve essential items for the family, moving a vehicle out of danger, and helping ensure nearby fire hydrants were accessible for responding firefighters.

The Greendale Police Department described the incident as an “extremely dangerous situation,” noting that the couple’s prompt response helped prevent what could have become a far greater tragedy. “Matt and Erin demonstrated extraordinary courage and compassion in a moment of crisis,” said Mayor A. Vincent Karsteter. “Their willingness to act without hesitation reflects the very best of our community. We are grateful for their example of service, bravery, and care for others. "The City of Greendale encourages residents to join in recognizing and thanking the Wuestefelds for their heroic actions and commitment to helping neighbors in need.