At Hollywood Video's parking lot on Niagara Falls Blvd in Tonawanda, the smoke-filled car and sparks coming from underneath weren't entertainment. Witnesses realized the diver was unresponsive and called 911.
Smoke was beginning to fill the car when Officer Julio LeBron arrived on the scene. He opened the car door but couldn't rouse the driver. He began to unfasten the seatbelt and pull the driver out. He heard a loud pop and the vehicle blew up and caught fire. The driver was still partially in the vehicle. LeBron struggled with the seatbelt as the fire intensified. Finally, he was able to free the trapped driver and drag him away from the burning car.
It wasn't until he was safely away from the car that the driver Norman Taylor realized what had happened. "Holy cow," said Taylor, "he risked his life to save me!"
Taylor was listed in good condition in Buffalo General Hospital, may have suffered a medical problem prior to the fire.
The 100 Club of Buffalo recognizes Officer Julio Lebron for his heroic action on July 10, 2005.
