Wausau Officer Awarded Medal of Valor for Heroic Rescue

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On Tuesday, Wausau police officer Wade Shnowske was awarded the Medal of Valor for his heroic actions in rescuing a woman from a burning building. Shnowske arrived first on the scene and made the decision to enter the smoke-filled house, finding the woman trapped on the couch with her legs on fire. He carried her to safety, though she later succumbed to her injuries. Wausau Police Chief Matt Barnes highlighted that Shnowske's actions were not required by department policy, making his choice to risk his own life all the more remarkable.

Why it matters

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the capacity for human courage and selflessness, even in the face of grave danger. Shnowske's actions echo a proud tradition of heroism in Wausau, where local residents have repeatedly put their own safety on the line to save others over the decades.

The details

According to the report, after arriving first on the scene of the burning building, Officer Shnowske made the decision to enter through an unlocked side door and navigate through thick smoke until he located the trapped woman. He then carried her out of the burning structure, though she later died from her injuries. Police Chief Matt Barnes noted that the department does not have a policy requiring officers to enter a burning building, making Shnowske's choice all the more remarkable.

• On February 24, 2026, Officer Wade Shnowske was awarded the Medal of Valor for his heroic actions.
• A few days after the rescue, the resident succumbed to her injuries and passed away.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.