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Woodland Hills student honored for pulling neighbor from burning home

Woodland Hills School District Board of Directors · November 13, 2025
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Summary

Xavion McMillan Taylor was recognized by the Woodland Hills School Board and local officials for entering a burning North Braddock house on Oct. 22, dialing 911 and helping an elderly neighbor to safety; the board and multiple elected officials presented proclamations and awards.

Xavion McMillan Taylor, a Woodland Hills High School student, was honored at the Nov. 12 board meeting for rescuing an elderly neighbor from a house fire on Oct. 22 in North Braddock. Officials said McMillan Taylor first called 911 and then entered the burning duplex to guide the long-time crossing guard to safety.

The board presented district awards and a lifesaver coin; Tawanda Curran, speaking for U.S. Sen. Jay Costa’s office, read a message of appreciation and said the recognition was important for young people often misportrayed in the media. Allegheny County Council member Michelle Nackerati Tapikas read a county proclamation praising McMillan Taylor’s “extraordinary bravery, selfless action, and compassion,” and announced a formal recognition day in his honor.

District leaders described the incident as an act of quick thinking that likely prevented a tragedy. The board presented a military coin and a district lifesaver award; several local elected officials and community partners also offered public praise and photographs.

Board members and guests said the publicity serves as a counterexample to negative media narratives about young people and was intended to encourage civic responsibility and neighborhood stewardship. The recognitions concluded with photos in the hallway and the meeting proceeded to scheduled business.