City
During this week’s City Commission meeting, Mayor Susan Adamchak recognized four Manhattan Fire Department firefighters for their heroic actions during a residential structure fire in the early morning of April 14, 2026.
Captain Kyle Voth, Driver AJ Brinkman, Driver Cole Hiatt, and Firefighter Mason Herzog responded to a house fire where a person was reported trapped inside. When crews arrived, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the second floor. Two people were able to escape to the porch roof, but one reported that another occupant was still inside.
As conditions worsened, Captain Voth, Driver Brinkman, and Firefighter Herzog advanced into the home through intense heat and smoke, using a hose line to push back the fire while searching for the victim. They located the unconscious occupant on the second floor and brought that person safely outside. Firefighters then worked with Riley County EMS to provide immediate life-saving care.
Because of the crew’s quick, skilled, and coordinated response, the victim survived and has since made a full recovery.
The City commends Captain Voth, Driver Brinkman, Driver Hiatt, and Firefighter Herzog for their courage, professionalism, and commitment to protecting the Manhattan commu