Heroic Rescue Near West Point: Army Football Cadet Saves Driver from Fiery Crash
FORT MONTGOMERY, NY — An Army football player and his father rescued a driver from a burning car shortly after midnight on Sunday, near the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
According to authorities, a white sedan had crashed into a utility pole on Route 9W, approximately 3.8 miles from the academy. The crash sparked power lines, creating a hazardous scene. Witnesses say Larry Pickett Jr., a sophomore safety, and his father, Larry Pickett Sr., rushed to help the driver before flames engulfed the vehicle.
Video footage recorded by Pickett Jr.’s sister captured the dramatic rescue as frantic pleas for help were heard from bystanders. The Picketts stayed with the driver until emergency responders arrived.
“Just after midnight, I watched in awe as my son ran toward a burning vehicle, ignoring the danger,” Pickett Sr. later commented on social media. “With immense courage, he pulled a man to safety.”
The U.S. Military Academy praised their actions as exemplary of Army values. “We’re proud of the heroic actions taken by Cadet Larry Pickett Jr. and his father,” the academy tweeted.
Army Athletic Director Tom Theodorakis echoed this sentiment, stating the Picketts’ conduct exemplifies leadership and selfless service.
Pickett Jr. is set to compete in Army’s upcoming game against Kansas State after participating in his first season opener against Tarleton State, where he contributed to a tackle.
Authorities confirmed no injuries were reported from the incident. An investigation remains ongoing.