Talladega police go above and beyond to rescue an injured woman trapped in a vehicle
March 5, 2023
(Talladega, AL) Talladega police officers face an array of emergencies each week. Fortunately, they are trained and prepared to respond to even the most challenging circumstances and situations. On January 7, 2023, Officer Rashad Billingsley was dispatched to a residence near Winston Drive, where a vehicle in a wooded area behind a residence had its emergency flashers on.
When he discovered an unconscious female slumped over in the locked vehicle, Officer Billingsley called for backup. He was able to get the driver’s side front window down far enough to unlock the doors to the vehicle, but both doors on the driver’s side were blocked by a large limb from a fallen tree. He entered the vehicle through the passenger side and noticed that the woman, who floated in and out of consciousness, was bleeding profusely due to a gunshot wound. As he began administering first aid, Sergeant Jeff Hamm and Officers Jeremy King, Gabriel Bridges, Jason Robinson and Quonterious Hill arrived to assist.
The officers realized that once the paramedics arrived they would not be able to get to the victim, whose vehicle was trapped by a large fallen tree. While several officers attempted to move the car from the woodline, others climbed into the vehicle to apply first aid and comfort the victim. Once the paramedics arrived, the officers assisted in getting the victim out of the car and into the ambulance. Two of the officers followed the paramedics to the hospital while the remaining officers checked the area and notified the victim’s family.
“All of this happened in a short time under very stressful conditions,” said Lt. Ron McElrath. “The officers never once hesitated. They could have waited until paramedics arrived. Instead, they made quick decisions to help save the victim’s life.”
“This event exemplifies the efforts and sacrifices our officers willingly make to ensure the well-being, safety, and security of Talladega citizens,” said Police Chief Diane Thomas.
City Manager Seddrick Hill Sr. added, “The City of Talladega is proud and fortunate to have outstanding police officers who go above and beyond to serve and protect our community.”
Pictured left to right: Officer Quonterious Hill, Officer Gabriel Bridges, Officer Rashad Billingsley, Sergeant Jeff Hamm, Officer Jason Robinson and Officer Jeremy King