Officers honored for burning car rescue

By Globe Staff

Two state troopers were honored today at a Statehouse ceremony for saving the occupants of a car that had crashed and burst into flames off Interstate 495 late last year.

Troopers Kevin S. Haley and Kyle A. Flanagan received Medals of Valor for their actions in the Nov. 8 incident. The troopers had been pursuing the car after it failed to stop in Chelmsford, State Police said in a statement.

After the car crashed into a wooded area off 495 in Bolton, fire immediately broke out in the engine compartment.

The troopers removed the passenger first. As they removed the driver, the fire flared up, spreading through the car. The car later exploded, sending debris flying. Both occupants were treated for their injuries, but they are expected to make a full recovery.

A total of 26 state and local police officers, as well as nine civilians, were recognized today for bravery, for going beyond the call of duty or contributing to public safety.

"Protecting and serving the public is a noble mission, and the officers and civilians being recognized today best illustrate what it means to serve," said Colonel Mark Delaney, commander of the State Police.

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