Incident Overview

In a remarkable display of bravery, a Rowlett police officer was injured after a suspected drunk driver collided with his patrol vehicle. Despite sustaining injuries from the impact, Officer Issac Gorskikh took immediate action to rescue the driver from a burning car.

This event unfolded on the shoulder of Interstate 30 in the early hours of Thursday while Rowlett police were managing traffic related to another incident.

Details of the Crash

The drama began when 33-year-old Lyn Alan Smith crashed into Officer Gorskikh’s squad car. Following the collision, Smith’s vehicle became engulfed in flames. Acting on instinct, Officer Gorskikh exited his vehicle, instinctively prioritizing the safety of the driver who had just hit him.

Body camera footage captured the moment when Gorskikh shattered the window of the burning car, pulling Smith out and dragging him to safety. “Not only does he get him out of the fiery vehicle, but he also drags him out and away from the danger,” remarked Rowlett Police Corporal Jaqueline Vergara.

Saving Lives Amidst Danger

In his effort, Officer Gorskikh not only freed Smith from the flames but also maneuvered him over a concrete barrier to shield them both from oncoming traffic. “The officer immediately after being struck exits his squad unit. And instead of doing a self-evaluation of his injuries, he doesn’t think twice; his law enforcement instinct kicks in,” Cpl. Vergara added.

Background on the Suspected Driver

Investigators revealed that Smith was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. Both he and Officer Gorskikh were transported to the hospital for treatment following their injuries.

Related Incidents

Prior to the crash involving Officer Gorskikh, a police pursuit in Garland initiated due to a driver behaving erratically. The situation escalated when the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Jose Andrew Ybarra, exited his moving vehicle and subsequently jumped into Lake Ray Hubbard while evading authorities. Tragically, Ybarra did not survive; his body was later recovered.

Aftermath and Recognition

Officer Gorskikh, who has only been with the Rowlett Police Department for two months, received commendations for his quick thinking and courage. An Army veteran, he was previously serving with the Dallas Police Department before his transfer.

This incident serves as a testament to the valor exhibited by law enforcement officers, often placing themselves in harm’s way to protect others.