Video: Heroic police officer runs towards burning car inferno to rescue passed out driver

"This officer’s quick thinking and bravery undoubtedly helped save this person’s life," his agency said.Hayward Police

A brave California police officer ran towards danger to save the life of a driver who passed out inside a burning car. The entire incident was captured on the officer’s body-worn camera.

The heroic deed happened on June 28, in north Hayward. The police department shared footage on its Facebook page this week.

“In this video, officers responded to the report of a parked vehicle on fire with the engine ‘revving’ and someone asleep in the driver’s seat,” police stated. “The first officer on scene saw the vehicle was on fire but could not tell if there were people inside, as the windows were heavily tinted, and the doors were locked.”

The brave officer took action to check if the vehicle was vacant. It was not.

“The officer used his baton to shatter the passenger side window and was able see someone inside and yell for him to get out of the car,” police stated. “The officer moved to the driver’s side of the vehicle and pulled the (only) occupant out of the car and to safety. Hayward firefighters arrived on scene a short time later and extinguished the flames. This officer’s quick thinking and bravery undoubtedly helped save this person’s life.”

The officer had to smash open a window to see through the tinted glass to see the passed out driver, police said.Hayward Police

The man was treated by paramedics who arrived at the scene shortly thereafter. In the video, the officer yells “Get out!” To the despondent driver. The officer grabs the man by the arm and pulls him out of the driver’s seat and away from the burning car.

Hayward residents praised the officer’s heroism.

“Great job!” One person commented. “What’s with all the heavy window tinting? I can’t see the face of the drivers when I’m in a parking lot or trying to cross the street. I don’t feel safe unless I make eye contact with the driver. It’s a safety hazard, especially on the front window and front seat door windows. Oh well.”

“I would love to see the local news report on that type of story,” another person added. “Good Going Officer!”

The police department did not state what caused the driver to lose consciousness.

“Thank goodness someone called it in or he wouldn’t be here today!!” A local resident commented. “Good work HPD and HFD.”

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