Harris County, TX – Two Texas State Park Police officers are being hailed as heroes after saving an 18-year-old recent high school graduate who was trapped inside a burning car following a crash on October 31. The incident occurred on Garrett Road, just outside Sheldon Lake State Park, in eastern Harris County.
According to officials, Texas State Park Police Officer Ryan Blalock was patrolling near the park’s boundary when he spotted thick black smoke rising from the roadway ahead. Sensing an emergency, Blalock immediately contacted Sgt. Neal Kocurek, who was nearby, reporting what appeared to be a vehicle fire within or near the park area.
Officers Rush Into Flames to Save Trapped Teen
Upon arriving at the scene, Sgt. Kocurek discovered a vehicle partially engulfed in flames. He quickly noticed Officer Blalock and a bystander inside the vehicle, struggling to free the driver, who was pinned beneath the dashboard. The teen’s leg had also been impaled by the emergency brake, making the situation even more dire.
Despite intense flames spreading from the engine compartment into the passenger cabin, both officers continued their desperate efforts to pull the teenager free. The fire quickly reached the driver’s side floorboard and dashboard, making rescue efforts increasingly dangerous.
Quick Action and Teamwork Prevent Tragedy
Thinking fast, Sgt. Kocurek ran back to his patrol vehicle to grab a fire extinguisher. At the same time, a bystander handed another extinguisher to Officer Blalock. Working together, the officers fought back the growing fire, preventing it from reaching the driver and the interior cabin until help arrived.
Moments later, the Sheldon Fire Department reached the scene. Firefighters, alongside the officers, continued working to fully extinguish the flames. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department later confirmed that both officers are former firefighters, a background that helped them remain calm and decisive under extreme pressure.
Teen Rescued and Airlifted to Safety
Once the fire was under control, Sheldon firefighters were able to free the trapped teen from the wreckage. He was then airlifted to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Authorities reported that the 18-year-old sustained two broken legs, a broken arm, smoke inhalation, and internal cranial bleeding — but remarkably, no burns. He is now said to be recovering, according to the reports.
Officers Suffer Smoke Exposure but Recover
During the intense rescue, both Officer Blalock and Sgt. Kocurek were exposed to heavy smoke, toxic fumes, and exploding vehicle parts due to the extreme heat. Neither had access to breathing apparatuses or respiratory protection.
After the rescue, both underwent decontamination, and Officer Blalock was treated for smoke inhalation at a local hospital. He has since fully recovered.
Commendation from the Texas State Park Police
In an official statement, the Texas State Park Police praised both officers for their bravery, saying:
“The quick and strategic actions of Officer Blalock and Sgt. Kocurek undoubtedly saved the driver’s life and are in keeping with the mission and highest standards of the Texas State Park Police.”
The agency also emphasized the officers’ commitment to public safety, noting that their actions exemplified courage, selflessness, and professionalism under extreme danger.
Community Hails Officers as Heroes
Local residents and online commenters have since commended the officers for their heroic efforts, calling their actions a true display of duty and compassion. The quick thinking and teamwork between officers, firefighters, and bystanders prevented what could have been a devastating tragedy.
How do you feel about the bravery shown by these Texas officers? Share your thoughts below — should Officer Blalock and Sgt. Kocurek be formally honored for their lifesaving rescue?
