Left to right -
Captain Cordova,
Deputy Frank Donalson,
Greg Walker, Esq., ARM, CPP

On Saturday, January 21, 2006, Deputy Frank Donalson responded to a major accident in the 8400 block of Windfern.  While relaying the call information, dispatch mentioned that the driver was possibly trapped inside the vehicle and that the vehicle was on fire.  Upon arriving at the scene, Deputy Donalson confirmed that the driver was still in the vehicle.  Deputy Donalson immediately retrieved the fire extinguisher from his patrol car and attempted to extinguish the flames, however, he was unable to contain the fire.  Without regard for his own safety, Deputy Donalson entered the burning vehicle and attempted to pull the driver to safety.  Donalson soon learned that the driver’s legs were pinned beneath the dashboard.  As Deputy Donalson struggled to free the driver, a helpful citizen, Mr. Carl Brodehausen, also entered the burning vehicle and began trying to free the driver.  Together, Deputy Donalson and Mr. Brodehausen were able to free the driver’s legs and pull him to safety. 

During this incident, the driver of the vehicle suffered second-degree burns to his arms, feet and upper body.  Were it not for the quick and decisive actions of Deputy Donalson and Mr. Brodehausen, this incident would have ended tragically.  By risking their own lives to save the life of a stranger, Deputy Donalson and Mr. Brodehausen demonstrated a commitment to the preservation of life that greatly exceeds expectations.  They are credited with saving a life that date, and I commend them for their actions. 

Tommy Thomas,
Sheriff Harris County