During the midnight shift of September 18, 2011, Officer Ryan Gould was on patrol when a report of a car crash with serious injuries was reported. Upon arrival, Officer Gould was confronted with a heavily damaged car that hit a tree. The occupant was unable to exit the vehicle due to serious injuries and entrapment by the damaged car. T
he driver was calling out for help and asking for anyone to get him out of the car that had suddenly begun to fill with heavy smoke. Officer Gould attempted to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher. A few seconds later, the dashboard and airbags ignited into flames with the driver still trapped inside the vehicle.
Officer Gould, without regard for his personal safety, immediately took action and gained entry through the driver’s door. Officer Gould grabbed the driver in a secure hold and dragged him from the vehicle moments before the car’s interior was engulfed in flames. The driver of the vehicle had severe injuries. Officer Gould and fellow officers rendered urgent care to control bleeding and stabilization of the driver’s multiple broken bones. The Berlin Fire Department responded and the Fire Chief reported that Officer Gould’s rapid extrication and first responder care saved the driver’s life.
In recognition of his outstanding performance of duties in this case, Officer Ryan Gould was awarded the Merit Award.
