OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Tim Turner, RKinta, today issued the following statement after receiving reports of two officers in who saved a man from a burning car: On Aug. 20, Stigler Police Department’s Assistant Chief John Vail was traveling east of Sallisaw on Interstate 40 and witnessed a driver crash into several trees. Without hesitation, Vail rushed into the wooded area, found the vehicle on fire and worked to extricate the trapped driver, using first his bare hands and then a fire extinguisher from his vehicle.

Oklahoma Corporation Commission Transportation Division Enforcement Officer Hayden Cantell then arrived on the scene to render aid.

The officers were able to pull the driver from the wreckage and bring him to safety just moments before the vehicle was consumed by fire.

“This incredible, selfless act of bravery deserves our deepest appreciation,” Turner said. “These men’s heroic actions saved a life, and they displayed the very best qualities of those in our law enforcement community.”