SAN DIEGO — A San Diego Police Department officer made a heroic save on Interstate 15 last week.
On Thursday, SDPD Motor Officer Alex Chiappone was heading northbound on I-15 when he came across a minivan completely engulfed in flames on the freeway’s shoulder, according to a Facebook post on Monday.
According to investigators, when Chiappone saw a crippled woman who couldn’t escape on her own, he walked immediately into the flaming automobile without waiting for backup or protective gear.
Chiappone, working with San Diego County Sheriff’s Cpt. John Malan, entered the smoke-filled passenger compartment and assisted in pulling the woman out through the sliding door.
Moments afterward, fire engulfed the interior where the crippled woman was trapped.
“Officer Chiappone’s response exemplifies the excellent levels of service and professionalism that we expect from individuals who wear the SDPD badge. We also like to congratulate Captain Malan for his decisive response and collaboration in saving a life,” SDPD added.
The woman fled without any burns or injuries.