TONAWANDA — Detective Mark Muscoreil of the Town of Tonawanda Police Department received a Report of Commendation Tuesday morning for rescuing a driver from a burning vehicle while off duty.
The commendation recognizes Muscoreil’s actions on March 23, when he witnessed a vehicle veer perpendicular to traffic and crash into a guardrail on I-290 westbound.
After pulling over and calling 911, Muscoreil approached the damaged vehicle and found the driver unconscious in the driver’s seat, apparently experiencing a seizure.
Muscoreil observed smoke and then flames emerging from the engine compartment and spreading to the windshield.
Acting quickly, the detective physically lifted the 39-year-old driver from the vehicle and carried him to safety.
The vehicle was subsequently destroyed by the fire.
Department officials praised Muscoreil’s bravery, quick thinking and compassion, noting that his actions demonstrated his commitment to public safety and adherence to the principles of good policing.
