Highland, United States - August 08, 2024

Newly released body camera footage captures the courageous efforts of police officers and a brave witness as they rescued a driver from a burning car late on August 8. Officer Austin Williams, returning home from duty with the Lone Peak Police Department, witnessed a speeding vehicle crash into a tree and burst into flames.

"I felt his pain and desperation, wishing I could do more," Williams recounted. "He looked to me for help, and I couldn't stand by."

Officer Zach Goodale of the American Fork Police Department arrived shortly after and devised a plan using a climbing rope from his car to secure the driver, ensuring his safety until they could extract him from the burning wreckage.

"We couldn't have done it without the assistance of Landon Waldvogel, who brought buckets of water to help douse the flames," Goodale acknowledged. "His quick thinking and willingness to assist were invaluable."

The driver, who remains unidentified, sustained second-degree burns and is recovering in the hospital. The family expressed gratitude to the rescuers, stating, "We are immensely thankful to everyone involved in saving him."

Reflecting on the rescue, Williams shared, "Seeing him freed from that agony was incredibly uplifting. It wasn't about heroism; it was about relieving suffering."

As investigations into the crash continue, the community praises the selfless actions of those who risked their lives to save another.