HARRISBURG, PA – Senator Joe Picozzi delivered remarks on the Senate floor honoring 11-year-old Andre “Trey” Howard of Northeast Philadelphia, whose extraordinary bravery following a recent plane crash captured the heart of the Commonwealth.
Following the tragic crash in Northeast Philadelphia, Trey shielded his younger sister with his own body, sustaining serious injuries in the process. He has since made a remarkable recovery.
“Trey’s actions revealed a strength of character far beyond his years,” said Senator Picozzi. “In a moment of chaos and danger, he did what few adults would be capable of—he shielded his younger sister with his own body, instinctively acting to protect her without regard to his own safety.”
Senator Picozzi emphasized that Trey’s bravery is a reflection of the values that define the Great Northeast: family, sacrifice, and grit. “This young man represents the very best of our community,” Picozzi said. “And if you need proof that Trey’s Philly spirit is alive and well, after waking up he asked, ‘Is my sister OK?’ and then, ‘Did the Eagles win the Super Bowl?’”
Picozzi closed the remarks with a salute to Trey and his family, saying, “Trey, welcome home. You are, without a doubt, a hero. May your story continue to inspire us to love more deeply and act more bravely in the face of adversity. Go Birds.”
CONTACT: Sonny Mazzone