Key Largo, FL — A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) police officer sprang into action Wednesday after encountering a seriously injured driver trapped inside an overturned car on U.S. 1 in the Florida Keys, authorities said.
Officer Risks Life to Save Driver
According to Miami Herald, Officer Chris Lejarzar was driving along the 18 Mile Stretch of U.S. 1 when he noticed a car had crashed through a fence and overturned into the tree line. Gasoline was leaking from the vehicle, and Lejarzar feared it might ignite at any moment after hearing the car’s ignition restart.
“Officer Lejarzar crawled through the broken rear window to get to her. He then cut the seatbelt,” said FWC spokeswoman Arielle Callender. “The woman was seriously injured inside.”
Emergency Response Team Secures the Scene
Soon after, Monroe County Fire Rescue, Florida Highway Patrol, and Monroe County sheriff’s deputies arrived on the scene to assist. Firefighters worked quickly to stop the fuel leak and secure the vehicle, allowing paramedics to safely extract the driver.
- Location: Southbound shoulder of U.S. 1, 18 Mile Stretch, Key Largo
- Incident time: Approximately 3:20 p.m.
- Actions: Officer Lejarzar entered vehicle, cut seatbelt, and secured driver until backup arrived
Lt. Col. Alfredo Escanio, FWC’s South Region deputy director, praised the coordinated effort, stating:
“I commend Officer Lejarzar and our Monroe County partners for their swift and courageous response. Their actions demonstrate their bravery and dedication to protecting the community.”
Driver Airlifted to Hospital
After being freed from the overturned sedan, the woman was airlifted to a mainland hospital by paramedics. As of Thursday, her condition had not been immediately released, according to officials.
Community Safety Highlighted
This incident underscores the importance of rapid, coordinated response from law enforcement and emergency personnel in potentially explosive situations. Officer Lejarzar’s quick thinking likely prevented a catastrophic fire and saved the life of the driver.
“Gasoline was pouring out of the car and the ignition was restarting. The risk of the vehicle bursting into flames was very high,” Callender added.
Authorities continue to monitor the driver’s condition, while the FWC emphasized the value of training and courage in responding to emergencies in the Keys, where accidents along remote stretches of U.S. 1 can become life-threatening quickly.
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