Newly released body camera footage has captured the dramatic moment California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers heroically rushed to rescue an unresponsive driver from a burning vehicle in South Los Angeles.
The state agency released the video on Thursday highlighting the officers’ heroic actions during the July 3 incident.
In the video, an officer was seen rushing to a car already engulfed in flames. Soon joined by colleagues, the officer used a baton to shatter the driver’s side window before pulling an unresponsive man to safety. Moments after the rescue, a small explosion erupted on camera.
“Our officers on routine patrol discovered this crash and immediately rushed in to check on the wellbeing of the occupant inside the burning vehicle,” CHP told Fox News Digital on Saturday.
Multiple officers rescued an unresponsive driver from a burning vehicle on July 3, 2025, near Los Angeles, California. (California Highway Patrol)
The two officers involved were recently recognized for their service by the Elks Lodge, a “fraternal organization,” according to FOX 11. Viewers who watched the video online also praised the officers for their heroic actions.
“In the face of danger, CHP – South Los Angeles officers acted without hesitation, breaking the windows of a burning vehicle using their rapid containment batons to rescue an unresponsive driver trapped inside,” the state agency said Thursday.
“Their swift and courageous actions saved a life and prevented what could have been a tragedy,” CHP added.
“Recognition is nice, but I’m just here doing my job really,” Leon-Brito told FOX 11.
