Hamden Police Rescue Unconscious Driver from Burning Car

Hamden police officers rescued an unconscious driver from a burning car early Monday morning.

Police responded to the area of Dixwell Avenue and Benham Street at about 2:30 a.m. on the report of a motor vehicle accident with a fire.

Captain Ronald Smith was working in the area and quickly responded to the scene and was advised by a bystander that someone was still inside of the vehicle, according to Sgt. Anthony Diaz.

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Smith observed the unconscious driver, Thomas Henderson, 35, still inside of the vehicle and attempted to open the driver’s side door and window to alleviate the heavy smoke that was billowing inside, but was unsuccessful due to the heavy damage.

Diaz said Smith subsequently attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher that was obtained from the Acropolis Diner.

Moments later, Sergeant Michael Sigmon and Officer Nicholas Lovett arrived on scene. Sigmon broke the front passenger side window and all three officers were able to successfully remove the driver from the burning vehicle and dragged him a safe distance away from the vehicle.

Hamden Fire Department personnel arrived on scene and distinguished the fire.

Diaz said Henderson suffered multiple injuries and was transported to a local hospital.