OPELIKA, Ala. (WRBL) – Opelika Police Officers Kevin Quintana and Gabriel Densel, along with their entire Golf Shift team, were recognized for their exceptional bravery at the City of Opelika Council Meeting this week. The officers’ courageous actions unfolded when they responded to a single-vehicle crash on Oak Bowery Road.
On the night of January 8, 2024, at around 2:05 a.m., the Golf Shift Officers rushed to the scene where a vehicle had overturned and caught fire after striking a light pole. The driver was trapped inside, and the situation was escalating rapidly as flames engulfed the vehicle.
In a display of quick thinking and teamwork, the officers utilized six fire extinguishers and a water hose to control the fire. Despite the intense heat and potential danger, they managed not only to contain the flames but also to rescue the sole occupant of the vehicle from the impending disaster.
Officers Quintana and Densel’s heroic efforts were further highlighted as they communicated with the trapped driver, directing them to crawl towards the rear of the vehicle. With coordinated strength, they successfully pulled the driver through the rear window just moments before the fire consumed the entire passenger compartment.