NYPD and State Troopers Rescue Three from Queens Car Fire

On a quiet night in Queens, NY, the routine patrol of New York’s finest turned into a race against time. On March 22, 2026, members of the NYPD and the New York State Police proved that teamwork is the ultimate life-saving tool. When a vehicle lost control and erupted into flames, these officers did not hesitate to put their lives on the line for strangers.

A Fiery Scene in Queens

Around 1:10 am, State Troopers from Troop NYC were patrolling eastbound on the Grand Central Parkway. Near Exit 11, they came across a tan Infiniti that had struck a tree. The impact was so severe that the car was already fully engulfed in flames. While the driver had managed to get out, three passengers remained trapped inside the burning wreckage.

Quick Thinking and Bold Action

New York State Police Trooper Gerandy Mercado and NYPD Officer Pawel Wala were among the first to arrive. The sound of screaming from inside the car made the situation clear. The officers used a fire extinguisher to beat back the flames, but the heat was intense. Because the doors were jammed from the crash, Officer Wala and his partner had to smash the car window glass to reach those inside.

Saving Lives Through Collaboration

The officers worked through the smoke and heat to drag the three passengers to safety. One young woman had suffered broken bones, making the extraction even more difficult. Despite the danger of an explosion, the first responders in NYC stayed focused. They prioritized "life over limb" to ensure every person made it away from the fire before it was too late.

Justice and Recovery Following the Crash

The driver, 20-year-old Mohammad Haque, was later arrested by the New York State Police. Investigators determined that his actions, including driving at a speed that was not reasonable, led to the violent collision. He now faces multiple felony charges, including second-degree assault and reckless endangerment. While the injuries to the passengers were serious, everyone survived thanks to the rapid police response time.

Reflecting on True Heroism

While many are calling these men heroes, Trooper Mercado and Officer Wala remain humble. They view their actions as a standard part of their commitment to public safety. Their bravery serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication found within our law enforcement community. 

We invite you to share this story of courage and explore more accounts of bravery on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do police officers train for vehicle fire rescues?

Officers receive specialized training to handle high-stress emergency scenes. This includes learning how to use fire extinguishers effectively and how to safely extract passengers from damaged vehicles. They also practice first aid to stabilize victims until paramedics arrive.

2. What equipment do patrol cars carry for emergencies?

Most patrol vehicles are equipped with essential life-saving tools. This often includes heavy-duty fire extinguishers, glass-breaking tools, and comprehensive first aid kits. These tools allow officers to provide immediate help before specialized fire or medical units reach the scene.

3. Why is teamwork between different agencies important?

In large metropolitan areas, multiple law enforcement agencies often share jurisdiction over major highways. When a crisis occurs, seamless communication allows different departments to pool their resources. This collaboration ensures a faster response and a more effective rescue operation.

4. What should a civilian do if they see a car fire?

The priority for any civilian is to call 911 immediately to alert emergency services. If it is safe to do so, onlookers can provide information to dispatchers about trapped occupants. You should never put yourself in direct danger if the vehicle is fully engulfed.

Sources:

• Story Source: State Police and NYPD Rescue Occupants from Burning Vehicle, Arrest Driver in Queens Crash

• Video Source: NYPD

• Additional Reporting: NYPD, State Troopers describe rescue of passengers from burning car on Grand Central Parkway