Off-Duty NYPD Officer Rescues Man From Burning Car After Crash

Heroic act captured on surveillance and body camera footage

Mar. 2, 2026 at 2:39pm

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An off-duty NYPD officer, Joseph Wetzel, who is battling cancer, jumped into action and rescued a man trapped inside a burning car after a severe crash on Long Island. The incident was caught on surveillance video that shows two cars colliding head-on, with one car flipping over and catching fire. Wetzel heard the crash from across the street and ran to help, pulling the trapped driver to safety.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the bravery and selflessness of NYPD officers, who are willing to risk their own safety to help others in need, even when off-duty. It also showcases the importance of quick thinking and decisive action in emergency situations.

The details

The surveillance video shows the two cars colliding head-on, with one car flipping over and catching fire. Wetzel, who was across the street, ran to the scene and pulled the trapped driver from the burning car. Body camera footage shows Wetzel telling other officers that there was another woman stuck inside the overturned car.

  • The incident occurred on March 2, 2026 in Hauppauge, New York.

The players

Joseph Wetzel

An off-duty NYPD officer who rescued a man trapped in a burning car after a severe crash on Long Island, despite being in the midst of his own battle with cancer.

NYPD

The New York Police Department, whose officers are known for their bravery and willingness to help others in need, even when off-duty.

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What they’re saying

“For NY's Finest, there is no such thing as off-duty when someone needs help.”

— NYPD Officials

“I ran across, threw up the window and pulled the guy out. Then you guys showed up.”

— Joseph Wetzel, Off-Duty NYPD Officer

What’s next

The NYPD is expected to hold a ceremony to honor Officer Wetzel for his heroic actions.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and bravery of NYPD officers, who are willing to put their own lives on the line to help others, even when they are off-duty. It highlights the importance of quick thinking and decisive action in emergency situations.