Houston, Texas – A Harris County Precinct 8 Constable’s Office deputy is being praised for his quick thinking and bravery after authorities say he saved the life of a woman trapped inside a burning vehicle following a violent crash on Interstate 45 in the early morning hours.
The dramatic rescue unfolded just after 1:17 a.m. on December 19, when Deputy D. Lozano came upon a terrifying scene while en route to assist another deputy during a routine traffic stop.
Crash Leaves Vehicle Overturned and Engulfed in Flames
According to the Harris County Precinct 8 Constable’s Office, Deputy Lozano was traveling along I-45 under the Scarsdale Boulevard overpass when he noticed a vehicle that had just crashed and overturned, landing on its passenger side in the middle of the freeway.
The situation was already critical. The vehicle was actively on fire, and flames were spreading rapidly across the wreckage.
Officials said the blaze had erupted both inside and underneath the vehicle, creating an extremely dangerous environment with limited time for rescue.
Deputy Discovers Woman Trapped Inside Smoke-Filled Car
As Deputy Lozano approached the overturned vehicle, he peered through the windshield and immediately saw a woman trapped inside, screaming for help. Authorities said all of the windows were still intact, while the interior of the vehicle was quickly filling with thick smoke.
Flames were already visible inside the car, with the dashboard on fire, as well as flames burning under the hood near the windshield and beneath the vehicle.
Despite the growing danger, Deputy Lozano moved closer to the wreckage, assessing the best way to reach the trapped woman.
Split-Second Decision Leads to Daring Rescue
When the woman yelled for help again, Deputy Lozano shouted instructions, telling her to get down to protect herself from the flames and smoke.
Because the vehicle was resting on its passenger side, the driver’s side window was facing upward, offering the only possible escape route. Using his baton, Deputy Lozano smashed the driver’s side window to create an opening.
Officials said that once the glass shattered, the situation intensified. Smoke and flames surged inside the vehicle, increasing the urgency of the rescue.
Without hesitation, Deputy Lozano instructed the woman to wrap her arms around his neck. He then lifted her through the broken window, pulling her to safety just moments before conditions worsened.
Woman Suffers Burns, Transported to Hospital
Authorities confirmed that the woman sustained burn injuries during the crash and fire. Emergency medical personnel arrived shortly after the rescue and transported her to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Her current condition has not been publicly released, but officials credited the deputy’s swift actions with preventing a potentially fatal outcome.
Constable’s Office Praises Deputy’s Heroic Actions
The Harris County Precinct 8 Constable’s Office released a statement commending Deputy Lozano’s bravery, calling his actions nothing short of heroic.
“Deputy Lozano’s actions undoubtedly saved the young woman’s life, and we are incredibly proud of his heroic efforts,” the agency said.
Officials emphasized that the deputy placed himself in harm’s way, confronting intense heat, fire, and smoke in order to rescue a stranger in immediate danger.
Officials also reminded drivers to exercise caution, especially during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility and reaction times can be reduced.
What are your thoughts on Deputy Lozano’s life-saving actions? Should acts of bravery like this receive more recognition? Share your reaction and appreciation in the comments and join the conversation.
