Heroic Rescue on May River Road: Local Officers Honored for Life-Saving Actions
In the peaceful town of Bluffton, South Carolina, an early morning took a dramatic turn on September 22 when a car crash led to a heroic rescue that would leave the community in awe. The incident unfolded just past 1:40 a.m. when a sedan collided with a tree near the intersection of S.C. 46 and Brown’s Bluff Lane, igniting flames that soon consumed the vehicle.
A Blaze of Courage
The harrowing scene was illuminated by the tower of flames that erupted from the wreckage, threatening the life of a passenger who was trapped inside. Fortunately, two brave local officers—Officer Azahel Young, a member of the Bluffton Police Department, and Staff Sgt. Brian Kaase from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office—were right there, and their quick reactions made all the difference.
The Rescue Operation
As reported by local officials, after the driver escaped from the burning vehicle, the passenger was still stuck inside. What followed was a tense sequence of actions. Dashcam footage showed Officer Young, only 27 years old and a rookie with just one year on the police force, charging towards the burning sedan armed with a crowbar to open the front passenger door. With the help of a bystander, he worked feverishly to save the trapped individual.
Just moments later, Sgt. Kaase arrived on the scene, equipped with a fire extinguisher. Together, these two men displayed an incredible display of teamwork, with Kaase managing to fend off the flames while Young freed the passenger by unbuckling his seatbelt. Once free, they quickly dragged the passenger to safety, just before the vehicle was engulfed in a blazing fire.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
The urgency of their actions was palpable, as shortly after their daring rescue, thick smoke and flames were seen escaping from the backseat window of the car. The passenger was promptly taken to a local hospital, thankfully with only non-fatal injuries.
Reflecting on this incredible act of courage, Sgt. Kaase humbly remarked, “I’m very thankful that we were in the right place at the right time.” Having spent years serving in the military police of both the U.S. Army and Marine Corps before joining the sheriff’s office in 2015, Kaase’s experience undoubtedly played a role in his swift actions that night. He was previously honored as the officer of the year in 2019.
Celebrating the Heroes
In acknowledgment of their bravery, both officers were awarded medals in a ceremony held last week. Officer Young received the agency’s first-ever Medal of Valor Award, a distinguished honor reserved for those who put their lives on the line to save others. This was a major recognition not only for him but also for the entire Bluffton Police Department.
Sgt. Kaase accepted the Life Saving Award, a commendation typically given for medical emergencies, significantly underlining the gravity of his efforts in this life-threatening scenario.
A Community Grateful for Their Service
Each officer expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and for the blessings that kept everyone safe during the incident. Officer Young, who is also a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, echoed sentiments of appreciation, saying he was thankful that divine intervention was at play for everyone involved.
Chief of Police Joe Babkiewicz praised Officer Young as a “tremendous asset” to the department and community, highlighting the impressive capabilities of new recruits. “Our police force has an amazing group of first-year officers that I am excited to lead,” he added enthusiastically.
A Heartwarming Conclusion
As Bluffton reflects on this more than just a rescue, it’s a story of courage, community, and a shared commitment to protect and serve that will surely resonate with residents for years to come. The actions of Officer Young and Sgt. Kaase remind us all that bravery can shine even in the darkest of times.
