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68-Year-Old Woman Pulled from Burning Car on Chester Highway: Dramatic Rescue Video Released

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A dramatic rescue unfolded on Sunday, June 8, when a 68-year-old woman was saved from a burning car after it overturned on a highway in Chester, N.Y. The rescue took place on Kings Highway near Knapps View Park at around 4:00 a.m., as reported by the Chester Police Department.

Police and emergency services were alerted to a crash involving a vehicle that had rolled over, trapping a woman inside. The Chester Police Department detailed that Officer Nicholas Contino was the first to reach the scene, handing his fire extinguisher to a passing driver and locating the trapped driver.

The rescuers successfully broke the sunroof glass and pulled the woman from the flaming wreckage. She was identified as a 68-year-old resident of Warwick, N.Y., and was driving alone at the time of the accident. She was taken to the hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.

Officer Contino’s quick actions were praised for significantly increasing the woman’s chances of survival. A video posted on the Chester Police’s Facebook page shows Officer Contino and another motorist attempting to put out the fire and then extracting the woman from the car. The footage captures the urgency and teamwork involved in the rescue operation.

In the video, a voice can be heard asking, “Can you get out? Hello… where you at?” to which the woman responds, “I’m here.” After the roof is breached, the woman is pulled from the vehicle and assisted to safety by the officers and motorists.

The woman’s full identity has not been disclosed. PEOPLE has reached out to the Chester Police for additional comments but has yet to receive a response. For more updates, sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay informed on top stories, from celebrity news to gripping human interest tales.

Tennessee Officer Gets a Boost from Civilian Driver in Memorable Foot Chase

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MEMPHIS, Tenn. — During a foot chase in Memphis, a police officer found an unusual ally when a passing motorist stopped to offer him a ride. The encounter, which was caught on video, has since gained significant popularity on social media, as reported by WMC.

The driver, entertained by the unfolding events, began recording as he allowed the out-of-breath officer to jump into his vehicle. The officer was in pursuit of a suspect accused of multiple felony property thefts. The viral video on Facebook shows the officer catching his breath in the back seat before quickly exiting to continue the chase with another officer.

Despite the civilian’s assistance, the Memphis Police Department reported that the suspect managed to evade capture. Nonetheless, the viral video has sparked online interest and commendation for the driver’s supportive actions.

In the video, the driver comments on the officer’s exhaustion, noting, “These officers are getting tired,” as they struggle to match the suspect’s speed.

Memphis Police verified the incident and mentioned that the officer’s decision to accept the ride was within departmental guidelines. They released a statement expressing gratitude to the civilian, stating, “We extend our sincere thanks to the citizen who assisted during this pursuit. Their actions exemplify the strong community partnership we value and strive to foster at the Memphis Police Department.”

YouTube Videos: https://www.youtube.com/embed/HeXKDveYX4Y?enablejsapi=1

U.S. Marines Sent to Los Angeles in Response to Protest Violence

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LOS ANGELES — CNN has reported that a contingent of 500 to 700 U.S. Marines from the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms is being dispatched to Los Angeles. This deployment aims to bolster federal law enforcement efforts following violent protests against immigration enforcement actions that erupted on June 8 in downtown Los Angeles. The demonstrations, which began on June 6, have sparked numerous confrontations with police, resulting in property damage and numerous arrests.

During these disturbances, law enforcement officials have documented several instances of violence, including officers being hit with rocks, scooters, and other projectiles. A video showed demonstrators hurling debris from an overpass at California Highway Patrol officers positioned on the freeway below.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported injuries among deputies, with one requiring hospitalization due to burns from a firework. He also mentioned that a Molotov cocktail was thrown during the chaos. In response, officers used crowd control tactics like tear gas and rubber bullets after declaring the protests an unlawful assembly. Luna emphasized that arrest teams were in place, warning that anyone involved in violence or damage to property would be detained.

As the Marines prepare for their assignment, the Department of Defense is still working out the details of their involvement, including use-of-force guidelines. CNN noted that the rules of engagement for military personnel who may face protestors in the city are still being crafted.

On June 9, California Governor Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, aiming to regain state authority over the California National Guard. Newsom opposed the president’s decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles without his consent.

In response to the lawsuit, President Trump suggested Governor Newsom should face arrest. “I think his primary crime is running for governor, because he’s done such a bad job,” Trump remarked while speaking in Washington, D.C.

The deployment of active-duty Marines domestically is rare, and Pentagon officials have yet to disclose how long the forces will remain in the Los Angeles area.

Fugitive Ex-Arkansas Police Chief Eludes Capture After Prison Break

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Authorities are continuing their search for Grant Hardin, a former Arkansas police chief convicted of rape and murder, following his escape from prison over the weekend. The 56-year-old remains at large as the manhunt progresses into its fourth day, Thursday, May 29. New information has surfaced about the ease with which Hardin left the facility unnoticed.

According to reports from Straight Arrow News, Hardin, who was serving time for both a murder and a separate rape and kidnapping conviction, managed to exit the North Central Unit prison in Calico, Arkansas, by donning a law enforcement outfit. The precise method by which he evaded detection was not previously known, but ABC News has revealed that the disguise was convincing enough for a guard to open a secure gate, facilitating his escape.

Officials are uncertain about the origin of the uniform, suggesting it was either “handmade or smuggled in.” Surveillance footage captured Hardin pushing an industrial cart, which he abandoned outside the prison after his breakout. Authorities are probing whether his duties in the prison kitchen played a role in his escape plan.

In the United States, roughly 2,000 jailbreaks occur annually, predominantly at minimum-security facilities, with few incidents at higher-security prisons. Many escapes are linked to staffing shortages.

Investigators suspect Hardin remains in the vicinity and are offering a $10,000 reward for any information leading to his capture. Residents in Izard County and neighboring areas have been advised to stay alert, secure their homes and vehicles, and report any suspicious activities by calling 911.

Federal, state, and local agencies are collaborating to locate Hardin, as noted in a U.S. marshals statement during the week of May 25. The search efforts include the use of K9 units and drones to scour the wooded areas. Coordinations with other states are also in progress to track possible movements of the fugitive.

Hardin, having worked in multiple law enforcement roles across Arkansas, has a documented history of behavioral and performance challenges. His last position was as the police chief in Gateway, Arkansas.

In 2017, Hardin was convicted of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of 59-year-old James Appleton. Appleton’s sister, the mayor of Gateway, described Hardin as “an evil man,” comparing his escape to a déjà vu experience. Additionally, Hardin was convicted of rape and kidnapping after DNA evidence linked him to the 1997 assault of a schoolteacher in Rogers, Arkansas. He received a 30-year sentence for Appleton’s murder, plus an additional 50 years for the rape and kidnapping charges.

Deputy in Texas Saved by Bullet-Resistant Windshield in Potential Ambush

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JEWETT, Texas — A Leon County deputy escaped harm in a shooting incident that authorities describe as a possible ambush, thanks to the bullet-resistant glass installed in the deputy’s patrol car, as reported by KBTX.

Sheriff Kevin Ellis stated that the event unfolded when the deputy was answering a 911 call from a woman in need of assistance. Upon the deputy’s arrival, the suspect began shooting, discharging eight bullets into the driver’s side windshield of the patrol vehicle.

The deputy emerged unscathed, shielded by the bullet-resistant glass. The suspect was apprehended without any further complications.

Sheriff Ellis expressed gratitude for the life-saving technology and the support from the community. “The Leon County Sheriff’s Office extends a special thank you to the citizens of Leon County and Operation Safe Shield for enabling us to outfit some of our vehicles with bullet-resistant glass,” he remarked. “Thanks to this, our deputy was able to return home safely this morning.”

Clifford Dorn, president of Operation Safe Shield, emphasized the significance of their work in safeguarding law enforcement officers. “This incident underscores the vital nature of our mission,” Dorn said. “It validates the importance of our technology, and today it saved an officer’s life. The investment has proven worthwhile. Our goal is to ensure officers return home safely at the end of their shifts, and today, the bullet-resistant glass fulfilled its purpose.”

Currently, Operation Safe Shield has equipped over 120 patrol vehicles in the Brazos Valley with bullet-resistant glass. A vehicle with these protective features was recently donated to the City of Snook.

In Texas, legislation aimed at broadening this initiative is on the brink of approval. House Bill 2217, spearheaded by State Representative Trey Wharton, proposes a statewide grant program to assist law enforcement agencies in installing bullet-resistant windshields and windows. The bill has passed with bipartisan support and is pending the governor’s signature.

Officer Saves Kayaker in Clinton River Rescue

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STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. — Officer Nikolas Bruno from Sterling Heights Police found himself unexpectedly utilizing his lifeguard training during his patrol last Saturday. At 2:30 p.m., he responded to an emergency at Riverland Park concerning a woman kayaker in trouble. Without delay, Bruno dove into the Clinton River to rescue the woman who was without a life jacket and holding onto a log for safety.

“As soon as I exited the patrol vehicle, I heard the commotion and saw she was in grave danger,” Bruno recounted. “She wasn’t wearing a life jacket and wasn’t a strong swimmer, so I removed my gun belt and jumped in.”

The incident occurred when the woman, part of a kayaking group, collided with a submerged tree, causing her kayak to capsize and strike her head. She managed to cling to a log, while her daughter, who was kayaking alongside her, reached a more secure log dam.

The woman, along with her daughter and niece, was kayaking for the first time when her kayak snagged on the submerged tree, causing the accident. She later told Officer Bruno she was “barely holding on” when he arrived to save her.

“This serves as an important reminder to always wear a life jacket,” advised Bruno. “You never know when you might need it, and it’s always better to have it on just in case.”

Heroic Rescue: Good Samaritan and Officer Save Driver from Blazing Vehicle

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FULLERTON, Calif. (NBC, KYMA/KECY) – An astonishing rescue was captured on a police body camera, showcasing the teamwork between a local good Samaritan and a police officer as they saved a driver from a fiery car. The incident unfolded last Wednesday in Fullerton.

The footage reveals 21-year-old Ricardo Vasquez, clad in a brownish-orange shirt and shorts, wielding a hammer as he rushes to assist. “I didn’t hesitate,” Vasquez recounted. “The hammer was the sturdiest tool I had.”

Vasquez, who works in construction, used the hammer to smash the windows and gain access to the burning SUV. “It was pretty frightening,” he admitted. “I kept thinking, ‘I hope it doesn’t explode.'”

Authorities report that the driver experienced a medical emergency, crashing into a parked car just outside Vasquez’s home on Valencia Drive. “The tire pieces were scorching hot; they were bouncing off me. It singed a bit as I opened the door and worked to free him,” Vasquez described.

As Vasquez and the officer successfully extracted the driver, neighbor Jorge Jimeno sprang into action with a garden hose to douse the flames. “The fire was closing in, so I used the water to keep it at bay,” Jimeno recalled.

The driver was alert and communicative after being rescued. “If I hadn’t helped, I wouldn’t have been able to live with myself,” Jimeno noted.

Neighbors are unanimous in their belief that the quick thinking and bravery of those involved were crucial in saving the driver’s life. “I acted on instinct to help save him rather than watch him perish. I had to do something,” Vasquez explained.

Vasquez reported only minor injuries, such as a blister on his leg, and expressed his hope for the driver’s recovery.

Watch the news story with body cam footage here

Ohio Officers Turn Shoplifting Response into Life Lesson for Teen

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DAYTON, Ohio — A routine shoplifting call in Dayton transformed into a moment of empathy and education.

On May 13, body camera footage from the Dayton Police Department captured officers responding to an incident where an off-duty undercover detective observed a teenager stealing items from a Walgreens store.

After requesting backup, the officers arrived and engaged with the teen, who confessed to taking the items due to hunger. One officer is heard in the footage saying, “Hey man, I’m not saying what you did today wasn’t a bad thing. But all things considered, you really do seem like a good kid. You’re cooperating, and you’re speaking well and remorseful.”

The teen explained, “I just made a bad decision. I just got out of practice, and I was hungry.”

In a show of leniency, the officers consulted with the store staff, who opted not to press charges or issue a trespass order. Instead, the officers paid for the snacks the teen attempted to take and offered him a ride home.

Before they left, the officers ensured the teenager grasped the gravity of the situation, reminding him that theft is a serious crime, yet highlighting the potential for a promising future if he remained on a positive trajectory.

View full video here

Florida Man Attacked by Alligator Attempts to Grab Deputy’s Gun Before Being Fatally Shot

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LAKELAND, Fla. — A man who survived an alligator attack while swimming across a lake was later shot and killed by deputies after charging at them with garden shears, according to a statement by a Florida sheriff. The individual has been identified as 42-year-old Timothy Schulz.

On the morning of Memorial Day, May 26, a 911 call was made from a gas station about a man who was acting erratically and asking to contact his son, reported Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd during a press conference on Facebook.

A few hours later, the sheriff’s office received another call about a man swimming in a lake behind a Lakeland residential area, where a caller observed an alligator near the swimmer, Judd stated.

The caller suspected the swimmer might be under the influence, and although a bystander attempted to offer Schulz a life preserver, he refused it, according to Judd. During the swim, Schulz appeared to have his right arm bitten by an alligator, Judd noted.

After exiting the lake, witnesses saw Schulz grabbing garden shears and attempting to break into a vehicle by throwing a brick, as described by the sheriff.

Deputies arriving at the scene reported seeing Schulz walking between homes with the shears. When he allegedly charged at them, they attempted to de-escalate the situation, using a Taser on him twice, but he remained aggressive.

Schulz then entered the passenger seat of a running patrol vehicle, attempting to seize a gun inside. This action prompted two deputies to open fire, resulting in Schulz’s death, the sheriff explained.

Sheriff Judd mentioned that Schulz had a record of meth-related arrests and had been recently released from jail less than a week prior to the incident. Judd believed Schulz might have been under the influence of drugs at the time.

Defending the deputies’ response, Judd stated that Schulz’s actions were violent, despite attempts to peacefully resolve the situation. “He showed no fear of two deputies, he showed no interest in complying,” Judd said, adding that his deputies “are going home safe tonight.”

Lakeland is situated about 35 miles east of Tampa.