Deputy rescues resident trapped inside burning home

NEW BUFFALO, Mich. -- A deputy saved a 72-year-old woman who was trapped inside her burning home early Thursday morning.

The resident called to report a fire at her home on W. Water Street in New Buffalo.

She was unable to escape from the home.

Deputy Michael Pellerito of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department arrived as flames engulfed the back corner of the residence.

He tried to go into the home through the front door, but was pushed back by heavy smoke, reports said.

With the help of 911 dispatchers, Deputy Pellerito was able to pull the homeowner from a bedroom window to safety, reports said.

The resident was taken to the hospital for minor smoke inhalation. There were no other injuries reported.