Photo by Embry Lopez/American Red Cross
Sergeant Rafael Rodriguez had just arrived home from his work day and was relaxing with his daughter when suddenly, they heard a loud crash.
They ran outside to see what had happened and saw a crashed vehicle with flames starting to appear beneath the car, and an unresponsive driver still in their seat.
Sergeant Rodriguez directed his daughter to grab their fire extinguisher, then, along with another good samaritan, Sgt. Rodriguez broke the rear window to extricate the driver.
As the flames and smoke intensified, the men's attempts to free the driver were unsuccessful. Just before the entire vehicle burst into flames, the two were able to release the driver’s seatbelt and pull them to safety. Were it not for the immediate actions of Sgt. Rodriguez, the driver would likely have perished in the fire.
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The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission.
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