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Baltimore Mayor Recognizes 'Heroes' In Fatal House Fire

BALTIMORE (WJZ) —A group of city construction workers are being honored today for their heroism.

When a fire broke out in a Reservoir Hill home--the men ran into the burning building to save a family trapped inside.

Jessica Kartalija has the story.

When fire tore through a home on Whitelock Street contractors Matthew Geppi and Keith Wilt jumped into action.

"We didn't talk about it, we just went inside," said Keith Wilt.

"The fire was on the left side of the house and I was spraying that to keep the fire from blocking the doorway while he was searching for the kids," said Matthew Geppi.

The men saved a father and his two young sons and are now being honored--along with two other workers--Edward Wilton, and Steve Wyatt for their heroic efforts.

"The first thing they said to me was 'Man, you are all heroes.' and I said 'No sir, today, you are the heroes,'" said Baltimore City Fire Chief Niles Ford.

Unfortunately, a toddler wasn't able to escape in time.

"It's devastating, we wish we could do more and would have gone down their sooner," said the men. "It could happen to anybody at any time and you hope that someone would do the same for your children."

Both Matthew Geppi and Keith Wilt--who ran into the building, have 4 children of their own.

The men are employed by Willbros Utility Group.

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