Caught on dash cam: Kenosha police rescue 84-year-old man from burning vehicle

KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Wednesday morning, April 26, Kenosha police released dash cam footage of an 84-year-old man driving a van with a flat tire emitting sparks. The van ultimately burst into flames. Kenosha police gallantly saved the 84-year-old's life by yanking him out of the fiery car.

"Just after 9 [p.m.] our officers started getting calls about a reckless driver traveling south on Sheridan Road one of our officers was at the right place and right time," said Joseph Noselik, Public Information Officer for the Kenosha Police Department.

Noselik said the officers tried to get the driver to pull over but the 84-year-old ignored the sirens. The van came to a stop near Sheridan Road and 73rd Street. Noselik said the driver was trying to make it home which was not too far.

"He just thought he could make it home and it was just a poor decision, and you know obviously his vehicle was leaking something. Those sparks ignited whatever was leaking out of the vehicle," said Noselik.

Noselik said they have written up the driver for a DMV driving review for the safety of others.

"We certainly don't want to deprive anybody of something that's so important to them. However, when it becomes a risk to public safety and to that person's own safety we do have to get involved and send a notice to the DMV," said Noselik. 

He advises folks to reach out to the Department of Transportation with any concerns of their loved ones' driving.