RUSS GAINS NEW FAITH IN HEROES ON TRINITY TRAIL

Dash Cam Captures Texas Officer, Bystander Saving Driver From Burning Car

Grand Prairie police released dash cam footage Tuesday showing two officers and a bystander working together to save a driver from a burning car after a crash on the Trinity Trail. At around 9:20 a.m. on July 25, officers responded to a major accident involving a vehicle fire on the Trinity Trail near Great Southwest. When officers arrived, they found a vehicle engulfed in flames with the driver, identified as Russ, still inside.

Dash cam video shows Officer Anthony Watson and Officer Marcus Dye getting out of their patrol car and running towards the burning vehicle. A bystander, later identified as Jerry Coward, is also seen running towards the car.

The officers and Coward used fire extinguishers to try to put out the flames, but they were unsuccessful. Officer Watson then used a baton to break the car's window and Officer Dye crawled into the vehicle to help Russ escape.

‘It Was Unbelievable How Fast It Happened’

Russ was pulled to safety and was treated for minor injuries. He is expected to make a full recovery. The officers and Coward were treated for smoke inhalation and were also expected to make full recoveries.

"It was unbelievable how fast it happened," Coward said. "The car was engulfed in flames within seconds."

Russ said he was grateful to the officers and Coward for saving his life.

"I don't know what would have happened if they hadn't been there," Russ said. "They're my heroes."

Chief of Police Steve Dye said he was proud of the officers and Coward for their quick actions.

"This is a great example of the kind of heroism that our officers and citizens display every day," Dye said. "We are truly grateful for their bravery."