Harris County (TX) Precinct 8 Deputy Constable K. LaMelle's vehicle burned after a crash early Tuesday. (Photo: Harris County (TX) Precinct 8 Constable's Office)
A tow truck driver rescued a Harris County (TX) Precinct 8 deputy constable from her burning patrol SUV early Tuesday morning.
Deputy K. LeMelle was parked on the side of the road monitoring traffic around 2 a.m. when her patrol vehicle was struck from the rear by a commercial work vehicle after the driver veered onto the shoulder, the constable’s office said on Facebook. “Upon impact, Deputy LeMelle’s patrol vehicle became engulfed in flames.”
Tow truck operator Richard Borgstrom was nearby when he heard the collision and immediately came to the deputy’s aid. Deputy LaMelle was trapped inside the burning SUV. “Borgstrom broke Deputy LeMelle’s driver’s side window and was able to pull her out of the patrol vehicle moments before the flames reached the driver’s cabin. His actions undoubtedly saved Deputy LeMelle’s life,” the constable’s office says.
The deputy was transported to a hospital, treated and released.
“At this time, the cause of the crash remains under investigation. Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy LeMelle and all those effected by this event. 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. 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,” Phil Sandlin, Constable of Harris County Precinct 8 said in a statement.
