Police officer, two bystanders, pull driver from vehicle fully engulfed in flames with live downed wires

Bellingham Police Chief Kenneth Fitzgerald is recognizing Officer Ryan Gonthier for his actions during a motor vehicle crash on Farm Street on March 20th. 

According to a police release, at approximately 5:45 p.m., Bellingham Police and Fire responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash into a utility pole, with the vehicle on fire and the operator trapped inside. 

Upon arrival, officers encountered a hazardous scene involving a burning vehicle and downed live electrical wires across the roadway. Officer Gonthier immediately retrieved a fire extinguisher and approached the vehicle, navigating around the live wires and heavy smoke. After attempting to suppress the fire, he, with the assistance of bystanders Matthew Hunt and John Mercier, was able to remove the operator through a damaged window. Moments after the rescue, the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. The operator was moved to a safe location and evaluated on scene by the Bellingham Fire Department. 

Chief Fitzgerald commended Officer Gonthier for his decisive actions, noting that his response under dangerous conditions directly contributed to saving the operator’s life and reflected a high level of professionalism and commitment to public safety. Chief Fitzgerald also wishes to recognize the actions of Good Samaritans Matthew Hunt and John Mercier for their assistance during the rescue. 

Bellingham Fire Chief William Miller also formally commended Officer Gonthier for his quick thinking and actions under extremely dangerous conditions, noting that the response likely prevented a fatal outcome. 

Sergeant Jon Walden submitted a commendation recognizing Officer Gonthier’s courage and rapid response in controlling the fire and assisting in the removal of the trapped operator. 

Preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle lost control prior to striking the utility pole. As a result of the investigation, the operator will be issued a criminal summons for charges including negligent operation of a motor vehicle, speeding greater than reasonable and proper, and a marked lanes violation. The operator will be required to appear in court at a later date.

The incident remains under investigation.