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Pleasantville Today
By the People, for the People
Heroic Officer and Bystanders Rescue Driver from Fiery Crash in Pleasantville
Quick action by a police officer and Good Samaritans saved a man's life after his car crashed into a pole and caught fire in a marsh.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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A driver lost control of his vehicle, crashed into a utility pole, and ended up in a watery marsh in Pleasantville, New Jersey. The car then caught fire, but bystanders heard the driver's cries for help. Egg Harbor Township K9 Officer William Burns was nearby, and he rushed to the scene, using a fire extinguisher to knock down the flames. With the help of other pedestrians, Officer Burns was able to break the rear window and pull the trapped driver to safety, just as the fire was entering the interior of the car. The driver's injuries were not life-threatening, and the heroic actions of Officer Burns and the Good Samaritans were recognized by local authorities.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the importance of quick-thinking and community cooperation in emergency situations. The driver's life was saved thanks to the bravery of Officer Burns and the willingness of bystanders to assist in the rescue. It also underscores the risks that first responders and Good Samaritans take to help others in need.
The details
According to reports, the incident occurred just after 9 p.m. when the driver lost control of his vehicle, crashed into a utility pole, and ended up in a watery marsh in Pleasantville. The car then caught fire, but bystanders heard the driver's cries for help. Egg Harbor Township K9 Officer William Burns was nearby and rushed to the scene, using a fire extinguisher to knock down the flames. With the help of other pedestrians, Officer Burns was able to break the rear window and pull the trapped driver to safety, just as the fire was entering the interior of the car.
- The incident occurred just after 9 p.m. on a weekend night in Pleasantville, New Jersey.
The players
William Burns
Egg Harbor Township K9 Officer who rushed to the scene, used a fire extinguisher to knock down the flames, and helped rescue the trapped driver.
Guy Emerson Jr.
A bystander who helped Officer Burns rescue the trapped driver.
What they’re saying
“This was truly a team effort... I was just doing my job.”
— William Burns, Egg Harbor Township K9 Officer
What’s next
The Pleasantville Fire Department assisted in the incident, and local authorities have commended Officer Burns and the other Good Samaritans for their heroic actions.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community cooperation and the willingness of first responders and bystanders to put themselves at risk to save others. It highlights the heroism and quick thinking that can make the difference between life and death in emergency situations.
