Two police officers in Ohio performed a heroic late-night rescue, saving a severely injured driver from his burning car following a rollover crash on December 27. The dramatic incident underscores the risks law enforcement faces and highlights their commitment to public safety.
Why It Matters
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the daily dangers first responders encounter. The swift actions of Officer John Mosora and Officer Chuck Lohry not only saved a life but also exemplified the vital role police play in emergency situations.
Key Developments
- At approximately 11:11 p.m. on December 27, Trumbull County 911 received reports of a car fire near state Route 5.
- Cortland Police officers arrived at the scene to find a vehicle overturned and engulfed in flames.
- Officer Mosora broke through the sunroof to reach the driver, who was trapped inside and in severe pain.
- Officer Lohry used a fire extinguisher to suppress the flames while Mosora pulled the driver to safety.
- The driver was transported to a hospital, but his condition is currently unknown.
- Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, with the Ohio State Highway Patrol leading the inquiry.
Full Report
When emergency calls alerted authorities to the fire, Officers Mosora and Lohry were the first responders on the scene. They arrived to find the car had crashed through a fence, flipped onto its side, and was quickly becoming engulfed in flames. Upon locating the driver trapped within the wreckage, Officer Mosora acted decisively, breaking through the vehicle’s sunroof to access him.
As flames began to spread, the driver managed to communicate that he was unable to move due to a broken leg. “My leg is broken. I can’t move. I can’t move. Give me a second,” he pleaded, but Officer Mosora quickly replied, “We don’t have a second. Your car is on fire.”
Realizing the imminent danger, both officers encouraged the driver to assist them. “Let’s go. Let’s go. We ain’t waiting,” one officer insisted as they worked against the clock. Lohry deployed a fire extinguisher to combat the flames surrounding the vehicle while Mosora successfully extracted the driver just moments before the situation worsened.
Although Mosora sustained minor injuries during the rescue, both officers demonstrated exceptional bravery. Other local fire departments soon arrived to extinguish the flames and provide necessary medical assistance to the driver.
The investigation into the crash is being coordinated by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, which has yet to release detailed information regarding the driver’s condition or the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Context & Previous Events
This incident took place in Bazetta and Mecca townships near state Route 5. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently overseeing the crash investigation.
