Piscataway Officers Save Driver Seconds Before Train Crash

Quick Thinking and Bravery on the Tracks

On May 12, 2025, just after midnight, two officers from the Piscataway Police Department saved a man’s life in a high-risk, heart-pounding moment. The man’s car was stuck on railway tracks on New Brunswick Avenue, and a speeding train was only seconds away.

Dashcam footage shows the unfolding chaos: warning lights flashing, crossing gates lowering, bells ringing, and officers sprinting into action.

“We’re dragging him out of the car. The car is stuck,” one of the officers urgently relayed over the police radio.

Despite the danger, Officers Devin Hinchcliffe and John Ward didn’t hesitate. They struggled to pull the impaired driver, unable to follow instructions, out of the car. Screams can be heard in the footage as the situation intensifies.

“It’s going to hit the car,” one officer warned as the train blasted its horn.

Seconds later, the train slammed into the empty vehicle. The car, believed to be a Tesla, was totaled, but thanks to the brave police, the man survived.

Recognizing Acts of Heroism

In a statement on Facebook, the Piscataway Police Department wrote:

“Recognizing the imminent danger posed by an approaching train, the officers swiftly and safely removed the driver just seconds before impact… Their quick action prevented a potential tragedy.”

Another post from the department added:

“Their professionalism and quick decision-making undoubtedly prevented a tragedy… Excellent job!”

The incident highlighted the power of teamwork, preparation, and police emergency response under extreme pressure.

Public Praise and Community Support

The dashcam police body camera footage went viral, with people across New Jersey calling the officers heroes.

“This is amazing. God bless them. They do not get paid enough,” one woman commented on Facebook.

Another added:

“Thank you for always putting your life on the line to protect someone else’s and trying to keep the community safe.”

More Than a Rescue: A Reminder of Commitment

While the exact cause of the car getting stuck remains unknown, what’s certain is the officers' unwavering dedication to their duty. Their swift actions are a powerful reminder of the role police play as community protectors, responding to life-threatening emergencies with resolve, skill, and compassion.

At We Love Police, we honor the officers, paramedics, and communication teams who embody courage, skill, and compassion. To see more acts of heroism, or to learn more about who we are and why we share these stories, visit our About Us or Homepage.

References

• Story and Image Source Dramatic video shows hero cops drag dazed driver from car before train smashes into it - Fox News (by Michael Dorgan)

• Video Source -  Fox 5 New York

• This story includes information from the Piscataway Township Police Department.

FAQs

1. What happens if a car gets stuck on train tracks?

If a car stalls or gets stuck on tracks, exit the vehicle immediately and move away at an angle in the direction the train is coming from. Then call emergency services.

2. Why was the driver unable to exit the vehicle?

According to the Piscataway Police Department, the driver was impaired and unable to follow instructions.

3. How do police approach a rescue on active train tracks?

Officers assess the speed and distance of the approaching train, communicate with dispatch for updates, and act swiftly. Their priority is always the preservation of life, even at great personal risk.