05/20/2026
At tonight’s Chesaning Village Council meeting Chief Troy Meder recognized Mr. Seth Deal for his exceptional courage and decisive actions during a vehicle fire incident within the Village of Chesaning and presented him with a Civilian Bravery Commendation letter.
“CHESANING POLICE DEPARTMENT
“CIVILIAN BRAVERY COMMENDATION
“This letter formally recognizes Mr. Seth Deal for his exceptional courage and decisive actions during a vehicle fire incident within the Village of Chesaning, County of Saginaw, State of Michigan.
“On April 30, 2026, Mr. Deal was working at a business near the intersection of South Saginaw Street and Pearl Street when he observed smoke and flames coming from the engine compartment of a vehicle parked in a nearby driveway. Without hesitation and with no regard for his own personal safety, Mr. Deal immediately ran toward the burning vehicle. After locating the vehicle’s owner, he obtained the keys, entered the vehicle, and successfully backed it out of the driveway and away from nearby structures. He positioned the vehicle in the roadway, removing it from proximity to other vehicles and buildings, and exited only moments before it became fully engulfed in flames.
“During a subsequent after action review, members of the Chesaning Brady Fire Department, including the Fire Chief and Safety Officer, confirmed that Mr. Deal’s rapid and selfless actions very likely prevented the fire from spreading to a second vehicle and the adjacent residence. Such a spread could have resulted in significant damage to nearby structures, including long standing businesses within the Village.
“Mr. Deal’s actions exemplify extraordinary bravery, presence of mind, and commitment to the safety of others. His willingness to place himself at risk to protect the community reflects the highest ideals of citizenship and community responsibility.
“On behalf of the Chesaning Police Department and the Village of Chesaning, we extend our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Mr. Deal for his courage and swift action in preventing what could have become a serious and widespread disaster.
“Respectfully,
“Troy J. Meder, Chief of Police, Chesaning Police Department”