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Video: Injured Texas officer rescues DUI driver from burning vehicle

The driver struck the Rowlett Police officer’s cruiser from behind; the officer broke the vehicle’s front window and pulled the man out after the vehicle caught on fire

By Lillie Davidson
Fort Worth Star-Telegram

GARLAND, Texas — A Rowlett police officer pulled an intoxicated driver from his burning vehicle moments after he struck the officer’s patrol car early Thursday, according to a video of the incident.

The officer was assisting Garland police with traffic control on Interstate 30 when the crash occurred, according to a statement from the Rowlett Police Department .

After his patrol vehicle was struck from behind, the officer got out and immediately approached the suspect’s car, according to the statement.

When the officer noticed the driver was not responding, he broke the window with his elbow and dragged the man to safety, according to the statement.

Both the driver and the officer were transported to the hospital, officials said. The officer was released later Thursday morning and the driver remains in the hospital.

The driver has been charged with intoxication assault, according to the statement.

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