California Highway Patrol Officer

California Highway Patrol

7/1/1994

Special Service Award (Silver)

On July 1, 1994, at approximately 6:20 pm, Officer Matthew E. Aguilar was completing a traffic stop when he was alerted by another motorist of a possible intoxicated driver passing his location. Officer Aguilar quickly responded and overtook the suspected intoxicated motorist. Before an enforcement stop could be initiated, the errant driver drifted off the right side of the roadway and travelled down a very steep eighty-foot embankment. Officer Aguilar stopped on the shoulder, looked over the edge, and observed smoke pouring from the vehicle. After quickly evaluating the scene, officer Aguilar selected a safe approach route and began to make his way to the vehicle. Upon arrival, Officer Aguilar noted that the driver was still inside and not moving. Flames were visible in the engine compartment and were quickly moving into the passenger area. Fearing for the unconscious driver's safety, Officer Aguilar entered the vehicle and began pulling him from the wreckage. Aided by a bystander, Officer Aguilar was successful in removing the gas-soaked driver from the vehicle moments before it became fully engulfed in flames. The fire spread quickly, igniting the surrounding grass and brush. Sensing that they were still in danger, Officer Aguilar led the group up the steep hill to safety. The fire continued to burn approximately five acres before it was contained by fire personnel.