Heroic Rescue After Multi-Vehicle Crash in Goodyear

Categories: Breaking NewsCrimeDisastersNews

Officer Dakota Berry bravely saves a woman from a burning car.

News Summary

A brave police officer saved a woman from a burning car after a multi-vehicle accident in Goodyear. The officer’s quick actions prevented a tragedy as the driver suffered critical injuries but is expected to survive. The incident highlights the risks first responders take in emergencies.

Goodyear — A heroic rescue unfolded in Goodyear early on May 25 when Officer Dakota Berry of the Goodyear Police Department saved a woman from a burning vehicle. The incident occurred just before 4:30 a.m. near the intersection of Interstate 10 and 91st Avenue, where Officer Berry, returning to Goodyear after booking a suspect, encountered a multi-vehicle crash.

Amid the chaos, Officer Berry found one vehicle engulfed in flames and a distressed driver, identified as Asharie Cheatham, frantically honking her horn for help. Without hesitation, Officer Berry utilized a glass-breaking tool to shatter the driver’s side window, enabling him to reach the trapped Cheatham.

Inside the burning car, the situation was dire; Cheatham’s hair was ablaze. Officer Berry acted quickly, attempting to pat down the flames with his hands before resorting to a fire extinguisher to quell the fire. Thanks to his prompt actions, Cheatham was able to vacate the vehicle.

Emergency medical responders transported Cheatham to a local hospital in critical condition. However, her injuries are reportedly not life-threatening, and she is expected to survive. It is worth noting that Asharie Cheatham is the daughter of a firefighter in Goodyear, which adds a poignant layer to the story of her rescue.

Despite enduring a hand injury during the rescue effort, Officer Berry is also expected to make a full recovery. Following the successful extraction of Cheatham, he placed flares along the interstate to warn oncoming traffic and prevent additional accidents at the crash site.

The Goodyear Police Department has praised Officer Berry’s actions, stating his bravery and commitment to public safety were evident during this incident. Police Chief Brian Issitt highlighted the selfless nature of officers who risk their lives in hazardous situations like this one.

The cause of the initial crash that involved Cheatham’s vehicle remains undetermined at this time. There has been no information released regarding whether others involved in the accident incurred injuries.

As investigations continue, the community reflects on the importance of rapid response in emergencies and the enduring courage of first responders like Officer Berry, who rise to the occasion when lives are at stake.