Off-duty Rhode Island officer who had just finished shift, saves family from burning home

CRANSTON, RI – The quick thinking and courageous actions of off-duty Warwick Police Captain Charles Boisseau are being credited with saving the lives of a Cranston family after a house fire erupted late Saturday night. 

At approximately 11:15 p.m., Captain Charles Boisseau of the Warwick Police Department had just finished working a detail and headed home when he noticed a fire starting in a trash can in front of 16 Whispering Pines Drive. Without hesitation, Captain Boisseau exited his vehicle, called 911, and immediately began banging on the front door to alert the occupants who were still asleep. 

After receiving no response, he searched for a hose to control the growing flames. Upon contacting the homeowner, both men attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose, but the water pressure proved insufficient. When the fire began to spread to the garage and house, Captain Boisseau called 911 a second time at 11:21 p.m. to report the escalation. 

Despite the house becoming engulfed in flames, Captain Boisseau and the homeowner re-entered the home to rescue the homeowner’s wife and their three young children, ages seven, five, and six months, successfully evacuating all occupants without injury. 

The Cranston Fire Department responded quickly and was able to contain the fire to the northwest section of the home, a new addition under construction. The remainder of the house sustained water and smoke damage. 

Initial investigation revealed the fire was likely caused by fireworks that had been used earlier in the evening during a birthday celebration and improperly discarded. Although they had been rinsed with water before being placed in a recycling bin, residual heat appears to have ignited nearby materials. 

“This incident highlights both the heroism of Captain Boisseau and the hidden dangers associated with consumer fireworks,” said Cranston Police Chief Michael Winquist. “Had it not been for his immediate actions, the outcome could have been tragic. We commend his bravery and selflessness in risking his safety to save others.” 

Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins also praised Captain Boisseau’s actions, stating, “We are incredibly grateful for Captain Boisseau’s quick response and bravery. His actions undoubtedly prevented a potential tragedy, and we owe him a debt of gratitude,” Hopkins said. “I am proud to know officers like Captain Boisseau are always ready to step forward in the face of an emergency.” 

Colonel Michael Lima, Chief of the Warwick Police Department stated, “Captain Boisseau’s actions while off duty exemplifies the very best of who we are as police officers. His quick thinking and courageous response undoubtedly saved lives. We are proud to have him as a leader at the Warwick Police Department.” 

Captain Boisseau is a 24-year veteran of the Warwick Police Department, with over 4 years previous experience as a Correctional Officer with the Rhode Island Department of Corrections. He has held positions in the Patrol Division and the Traffic Division, and has been assigned as a Patrol Supervisor for the Past 12 years. Charles also served as a Combat Medic in the United States Army and its Reserves, deploying multiple times; and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Medical Badge for his actions while deployed to Afghanistan.

The Cranston Police Department reminds all residents to properly soak and dispose of used fireworks in a metal container away from combustible materials and structures, even after dousing them with water.