Oak Brook, IL – A dramatic early-morning rescue unfolded today after Oak Brook police officers pulled a trapped motorist from a burning, overturned vehicle following a high-speed crash near Interstate 88.
According to the Oak Brook Police Department, the incident occurred around 3:38 a.m. Sunday when an officer on routine patrol observed a sedan traveling northbound on Route 83 at 31st Street at a high rate of speed without exterior or interior lights illuminated. The officer attempted to catch up as the vehicle entered eastbound Interstate 88.
Once on I-88, the officer encountered a crashed vehicle that had rolled over and was fully engulfed in flames in the engine compartment. Police later confirmed it was the same vehicle observed speeding moments earlier.
The driver, the sole occupant, was trapped inside the overturned car. Officers, assisted by additional responding Oak Brook units, immediately deployed fire extinguishers to suppress the flames while working to free the individual. Police crawled underneath the vehicle and successfully pulled the driver to safety as the fire continued to burn.
The rescued motorist and two officers sustained minor injuries, including smoke inhalation, according to police. All were transported to a local hospital, treated, and later released.
Oak Brook Police Chief Brian Strockis praised the officers’ actions, saying they placed themselves in harm’s way to save a life. He noted there is “no doubt” their actions prevented a fatal outcome.
The Illinois State Police are now leading the investigation into the crash. No additional details about the cause or potential charges have been released.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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