Texas State Park Police officers credited with saving teen from burning vehicle near Sheldon Lake

Sheldon, TX – Two Texas State Park Police officers are being recognized for their bravery after rescuing an 18-year-old driver trapped inside a burning vehicle near Sheldon Lake State Park on October 31, 2025.

Officer Ryan Blalock was patrolling near the park’s boundary when he saw thick, black smoke rising from the roadway ahead. Believing a fire was near or inside the park, he contacted Sergeant Neal Kocurek, who quickly responded to the scene.

When Sgt. Kocurek arrived, he found Officer Blalock, along with several bystanders, inside a smoke-filled, burning vehicle trying to pull the driver to safety. The man was pinned by a crushed dashboard, and investigators later determined his leg had been impaled by the vehicle’s emergency brake.

As flames spread from the engine to the passenger compartment, both officers grabbed fire extinguishers, one from a patrol car and another provided by a passerby, to suppress the fire and protect the trapped driver. They alternated between the engine and passenger compartments, using short bursts to conserve the extinguishers while keeping the flames at bay.

When the Sheldon Fire Department arrived, both officers, former firefighters themselves, continued to assist firefighters by helping charge hoses and move equipment. Once the fire was fully extinguished, rescuers were able to extricate the driver, who was airlifted to a trauma center.

The driver suffered multiple broken bones, smoke inhalation, and internal injuries, but notably had no burns. Officers Blalock and Kocurek were both exposed to heavy smoke and chemicals during the rescue; Blalock was later treated for smoke inhalation and has since recovered.

Officials say the officers’ quick and coordinated actions prevented a tragic outcome. The Texas State Park Police said their efforts “undoubtedly saved the driver’s life” and reflect the highest standards of service and courage within the agency.