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Hauppauge, NY (March 4, 2026) – An off-duty NYPD officer rescued a man from a burning vehicle following a head-on crash on Monday, March 2, in Hauppauge on Long Island. The collision was captured on surveillance video.
Authorities said two cars collided head-on, causing one vehicle to flip over and catch fire. Joseph Wetzel, who was off duty at the time and across the street when the crash occurred, ran toward the wreckage after hearing the impact.
Video shows him pulling a trapped driver from the burning car moments after the crash. Body camera footage later captured Wetzel alerting responding officers that a woman was still stuck inside the overturned vehicle.
Details about the injuries sustained in the crash have not been fully released. The incident remains under review by authorities. We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
How Vehicle Fires Can Develop After a Serious Crash
Vehicle fires can ignite quickly after a major collision, especially when fuel lines or electrical systems are damaged. A head-on crash can cause severe front-end damage, increasing the risk of sparks or fluid leaks.
When a vehicle flips over, occupants may become trapped due to crushed doors or roof damage. In those cases, seconds matter. Quick action by nearby witnesses or first responders can help reduce the risk of serious harm.
Surveillance cameras and body camera footage often provide a clearer timeline of events. These recordings may help illustrate how the crash unfolded and how rescue efforts unfolded in the critical moments after impact.
