By Theresa Braine
New York Daily News
BRIDGEWATER, N.J. — A New Jersey cop turned potential tragedy into triumph early Wednesday, pulling an unconscious driver from his burning car, as seen in video shared by police.
Officer Noah Allatt was on patrol when he responded to a report of a vehicle crash in Bridgewater at 2:11 a.m., the Bridgewater Police Department said in a news release.
Zachary Roslin, driving a tanker truck, had just pulled out of a Speedway when he was rear-ended by Peter Della-Ventura, who was behind the wheel of a Hyundai Elantra. Both were traveling west on State Route 22, according to police.
“After the impact, the vehicles fused and became engulfed in flames,” police said. “The vehicles traveled approximately 685 feet while stuck together and on fire.”
Roslin managed to bring the semi-trailer to a “controlled stop.” He and Della-Ventura’s passenger, Moosade Harris, were then able to exit their vehicles, but Della-Ventura was trapped inside, unconscious.
“Without hesitation, Officer Allatt reached into vehicle, pulled the driver out and dragged him to safety,” police said.
Della-Ventura and Harris sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to a New Brunswick hospital.
“Officer Allatt showed bravery, strength and composure throughout the duration of the call,” the department said, lauding him for his heroism. “Officer Allatt’s swift actions saved the life of the driver.”
Authorities were still investigating the cause of the crash, and no charges had been filed as of Wednesday afternoon.
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