On Monday, Cleveland City Council presented a resolution honoring 16-year-old Tyler Sowden for his brave actions on March 28, when he rescued a mother and her two children from their burning home. After hearing cries for help, Tyler rushed to the scene with a ladder from his own house, using it to help the woman, her 10-month-old baby, and 10-year-old child escape the flames.
“If every 16-year-old could be like Tyler, Cleveland would be a much better place,” said Ward 16 Councilman Brian Kazy during the council meeting. “We always hear about crime in the city, but we also have good people doing great things, and that needs to be recognized.”
Tyler’s story has garnered widespread attention—not only from local leaders like Mayor Justin Bibb and members of City Council, but also from national figures, including NBA star Donovan Mitchell. A video showing the dramatic rescue helped shine a light on the teen’s quick thinking and selfless courage.
“It’s crazy how much of an impact his actions made,” said Matt Stamper, Tyler’s stepfather. “It just goes to show—even the small stuff matters.”
Tyler’s mother, Brittany Cart, recalled how city leaders personally reached out following the rescue. “The mayor reached out to me. The councilman came to my house, knocked on my door. They were all very involved,” she said.
Also honored during Monday’s meeting were Cleveland police officers James Bellomy and Kerry Adams, who spotted the same fire and acted swiftly to rescue an elderly man and his dog from a neighboring house that had also caught fire.
“It’s an honor and a privilege that we’re able to recognize somebody for just their instinctive heroic act,” said Councilman Kazy. He and Tyler’s family expressed hope that the teen’s bravery will inspire others across the city.
As Cleveland continues to celebrate the young hero, Tyler remains humble. But for the family he helped save—and for a city so often in need of good news—his actions left a lasting mark.