Body camera footage released by the Candler County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia has shed more light on the dramatic rescue of a woman trapped in a burning car and the deputy who risked his life to save her.
The rescue, which took place on July 1 near Highway 46, was captured on police body camera and has since garnered widespread attention.
Sergeant Ashleigh Taylor was credited for saving the woman’s life after she crashed her vehicle into the woods off the main road.
Upon arriving at the scene, Sergeant Taylor immediately pulled over to the side of the road and exited his cruiser. He then ran through the thick brush until he reached the vehicle, which was engulfed in smoke and flames.
Using a baton, Taylor shattered the driver’s side window while urging the woman inside to release her seatbelt and escape the dangerous situation.
The intense moment was caught on body-camera footage as the flames grew closer.
In the video, Taylor can be seen reaching inside the car, his hands outstretched, imploring the woman to take his hand.
“Come on. Get out of the car,” Taylor urged.
Eventually, the deputy managed to extract the woman from the blazing vehicle and drag her to safety. Once outside, Taylor checked for any additional passengers, ensuring no one was left behind.
In the aftermath of the rescue, Taylor requested assistance from a nearby bystander to carry the rescued woman out of the woods and away from the fire. Fortunately, the woman appeared to be unharmed.
Later, Sheriff John Miles conveyed his appreciation for Sergeant Taylor’s heroic efforts.
“Due to Sergeant Taylor’s swift actions, the driver was removed from a dangerous situation before it escalated. He potentially saved a life.” The sheriff commended Taylor for his outstanding job during the incident and extended gratitude to the motorists who stopped to assist.
The sheriff’s office posted the video on Instagram, which has received 116 likes.
“We would also like to thank the number of motorists that stopped to assist. Please join us in commending Sergeant Taylor for the outstanding job on this incident!” the department wrote.