Royal Oak Police Sergeant Rescues Motorist From Burning Car: VIDEO

ROYAL OAK, MI — Royal Oak police Sgt. Karly Wingart rescued a trapped motorist from a car engulfed in flames, according to a press release.

Royal Oak police report that just after midnight on Jan. 15, Sgt. Wingart was the first officer on the scene of an accident involving a SMART bus and a Ford Fusion. According to police, initial information has determined the Fusion rear-ended the SMART bus, which had just dropped off passengers.

The passenger in the Fusion, a 36-year-old Royal Oak resident, was severely injured and stuck inside the car. As Sgt. Wingart approached the Fusion, she saw its engine compartment had "burst into flames." Sgt. Wingart freed the trapped motorist by entering the car through the driver’s side. While Sgt. Wingart helped the injured passenger, Berkley police put out the flames.

The Royal Oak Fire Department transported the injured passenger and the driver of the Fusion, a 29-year-old Macomb Township resident, to Royal Oak Beaumont. One passenger on the SMART bus reported minor injuries. Alcohol is suspected as a contributing factor, however, the investigation is ongoing.

“I am very proud, but not surprised with Sgt. Wingart’s quick thinking and bravery," Chief Corrigan O’Donohue said in a statement. Chief O'Donohue continued, "With complete disregard for her own personal safety, she entered a burning vehicle to assist an injured passenger. I would like to acknowledge the Berkley officer who extinguished the flames while Sgt. Wingart was helping the injured woman.”

If you have information about the crash, please call the Royal Oak Police Criminal Investigation Division, Lieutenant Keith Spencer at 248-246-3456.

Photo and video via the Royal Oak Police's YouTube channel