WATCH: Body Camera Footage Shows Heroic Texas Police Officer Pulling Man from Burning Car – Officer Awarded for Meritorious Conduct

A Texas police officer is being honored with the Southlake Police Department’s Meritorious Conduct Award after he saved a man from a burning vehicle last month. 

Police body camera footage released by the Southlake Department of Public Safety shows the moment along Texas State Highway 114, where, within minutes of stopping the car with heavy smoke coming out, the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames.

The car is seen driving by the parked police car emitting smoke, then coming to a stop about one minute later. Immediately upon stopping, the car ignites in flames.

Corporal Joshua Swisher ran from his car, screaming, “Get out of the car now! Get out! Get out! Get out!”

Upon realizing the driver was stuck inside, he smashed the window and pulled the man out, then ensured no one else was in the car.

Within a minute, according to timestamps, the vehicle was seen on cruiser dashcam footage completely on fire as firefighters arrived at the scene.

WATCH:

The Southlake Department of Public Safety wrote on Facebook:

Heroism on the Highway

What began as an ordinary traffic stop quickly became a life-threatening emergency.

On June 7, Corporal Swisher was conducting a traffic stop along westbound SH 114 when dispatch alerted him to a nearby vehicle with heavy smoke coming from it. Shortly after directing the vehicle safely onto the shoulder, flames erupted from underneath it.

Realizing the driver was still inside, Corporal Swisher immediately moved toward the burning vehicle, pulled the driver to safety, and helped prevent what could have been a tragic outcome.

For his courage, quick thinking, and decisive actions, Corporal Swisher was recently awarded the Southlake Police Department’s Meritorious Conduct Award.

Per My Southlake News:

Thanks to Corporal Swisher’s swift actions, the driver did not suffer serious injury. Dash camera and body-worn camera footage from the incident capture just how quickly the situation escalated and the urgency of Corporal Swisher’s response.

For his courage, decisive action, and commitment to protecting others, Corporal Swisher was recently presented with the Southlake Police Department’s Meritorious Conduct Award, the Department’s second-highest honor. The award recognizes employees who demonstrate exceptional courage, professionalism, and performance in the face of significant danger.

“Every day, our officers are prepared to respond to situations that can change in an instant,” said Police Chief Ashleigh Casey. “This incident is a powerful reminder that there is no such thing as a routine traffic stop or call. This recognition honors more than a courageous act – Corporal Swisher’s selfless actions reflect the character, training, and commitment our officers bring to every shift, every day to protect and serve the Southlake community.”

Acts of courage rarely happen by chance. They are the product of countless hours of training, experience, and a deep commitment to protecting others. The Southlake Police Department remains proud of the dedicated officers who bring these qualities to their work every day and who stand ready to serve and protect the Southlake community with excellence.