A Pennsylvania man is alive after a Leelanau County Sheriff's Office Sergeant saved him from a burning vehicle.

On August 27 at 1:05 am, Deputies responded to East Traverse Highway, near South Maple City Road in Kasson Township for a report of a vehicle fire. Prior to the Sergeants arrival, additional reports came in that the owner of the vehicle had been drinking heavily and had also possibly set the vehicle on fire in a way to cause self-harm. Shortly after the Sergeant arrived on scene, he was able to carefully approach and see a 35-year-old man sitting outside at the rear of the vehicle, as the front and passenger compartment of the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. The Sergeant, without regard for his own safety, ran up to the vehicle and subject and pulled him away as the subject continued to resist the efforts. It was later learned that the man had filled the vehicle with gasoline and a propane tank prior to this event.

The man was unharmed due to the Sergeants efforts and was ultimately transported to Munson Medical Center for evaluation purposes.

Due to his obvious concern and swift action, Sergeant Chris Bailey will receive a lifesaving commendation for his efforts.