WATCH: Police Officer Smashes Way Into Burning Vehicle To Rescue 68-Year-Old Woman

June 12, 2025

Today's good news story comes from Chester, New York.

In a truly inspiring display of bravery and community spirit, quick-thinking police and compassionate bystanders united early Sunday morning to pull a 68-year-old woman from a burning, overturned vehicle on Kings Highway. Their selfless actions turned a potentially tragic incident into a remarkable story of survival and heroism.

Credit: Town of Chester Police Department

The harrowing scene unfolded just after 4 AM on Sunday, June 8th, when units from the Town of Chester Police Department, alongside other emergency services, were dispatched to a severe motor vehicle crash near Knapps View Park. Initial reports indicated a rolled-over vehicle, but updates quickly escalated the urgency: the operator was trapped, and the car was engulfed in flames.

Officer Nicholas Contino was the first to arrive, confronting a terrifying sight. Without hesitation, he sprang into action. After handing his fire extinguisher to a helpful passing motorist, Officer Contino bravely approached the burning wreckage. Demonstrating incredible resourcefulness, he managed to shatter the sunroof glass, creating an opening to reach the trapped driver.

His courageous efforts were immediately bolstered by two benevolent passing motorists and a dedicated paramedic from Empress EMS. Together, this impromptu team worked swiftly, pulling the 68-year-old Warwick resident from the fiery vehicle and away to safety.

The woman, who sustained burns to approximately a third of her body, was quickly transported to Westchester Medical Center’s Burn Unit. Thanks to the extraordinary intervention of Officer Contino and the Good Samaritans, she is currently in stable condition, a testament to the critical minutes saved by their actions.

The Town of Chester Police Department rightly commended Officer Contino, stating that his "effort greatly increased the motorist’s chances for survival."

Watch the intense bodycam video below: