LAS VEGAS, NV - As more people across the valley learn of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Officer murdered by strangers in his own home, we're learning more about the lives he touched.

Officer Trevor Nettleton was only with Metro for about three years, but there are a number of people who say he went above and beyond the call of duty.

That includes his actions during a destructive fire in August of 2007 at the Century Meadows complex, near Spring Mountain and Jones. Nettleton was among five officers who received a departmental commendation for life-saving on that summer night.

That was more than two years ago. Residents remember it as if it was yesterday.

"Most police officers would've probably just waited for the fire department to show up. He wasn't one of those officers," said Tracy Piesen-Leviner.

Within minutes of getting everybody out alive from the ravaging flames, all six units were completely engulfed.

"They pulled a lot of people out of the houses. They were knocking on doors. They were kicking doors down," said Piesen-Leviner.  "The one that stood out was this gentleman here. He wanted to help people, and that's what he believed in."

By the time the Clark County Fire Department had arrived, all of the residents escaped safely. Many are forever thankful for the role that Nettleton played in helping to save their lives.

"It's something that stays with you. It never goes away," said Marlene Lavin.

Lavin credits Nettleton, in part, for her 7-year-old daughter's well being. He and the other officers showed up for her daughter's birthday after their condo was reduced to rubble. They came with presents in hand for the kids at the complex who lost everything.

"He was a big bear. A big teddy bear and we'll miss him," added Lavin. "He could've given up his life helping somebody, instead of somebody uselessly taking his life."

Officer Nettleton had only been with the department for about a year when he was commended for his heroic actions.

The residents he helped to save say they could already tell he was ready to dedicate his career to protecting others.

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