By Sarah Calams
PASADENA, Texas — Shocking photos of a deputy’s patrol car were posted on Facebook, which shows the aftermath of the fully engulfed cruiser that caught on fire after being struck while monitoring early morning traffic.
Deputy K. LeMelle, a three-year Harris County Precinct 9 Constable’s Office deputy, was parked on the roadway shoulder when her cruiser was struck from the rear by a commercial work vehicle, the department wrote on Facebook. Following the crash, LeMelle’s vehicle became engulfed in flames.
A nearby tow truck driver, Richard Borgstrom, heard the crash and came to LeMelle’s aid. Borgstrom broke the cruiser’s driver side window and pulled LeMelle out of her vehicle moments before flames erupted from the driver’s cabin.
“His actions undoubtedly saved Deputy LeMelle’s life,” the department’s Facebook post said.
LeMelle was transported and later released from the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
“I would like to extend my thanks to Mr. Borgstrom, who without regard for his own safety, did not hesitate to act in this situation,” the Facebook post continued. “This is yet another example of a tow truck operator who stepped up to render assistance to one of my deputies when needed and for that I am grateful.”
https://www.facebook.com/HarrisCountyPrecinct8ConstablesOffice/posts/416072240546514