Lede: An Army football player and his father rescued a man from a crashed car before it exploded near West Point, New York, early Sunday morning.
Authorities said the incident occurred around 12:15 a.m. on Route 9W in Fort Montgomery, approximately 3.8 miles from the U.S. Military Academy. The white sedan had collided with a utility pole, with live wires reportedly sparking around the vehicle.
Sophomore safety Larry Pickett Jr., along with his father, Larry Pickett Sr., witnessed the crash while returning to campus after dinner in Times Square. They pulled the driver from the car and remained on the scene until emergency responders arrived.
Pickett Sr. shared on Facebook that he watched in astonishment as his son rushed toward the burning vehicle, demonstrating courage in the face of danger. “With immense courage, he pulled a man to safety, saving him from a fiery fate,” Pickett Sr. wrote.
The U.S. Military Academy recognized their actions on X, stating, “We're proud of the heroic actions taken Saturday night by Cadet Larry Pickett Jr. and his father.” The academy emphasized that their conduct embodies U.S. Army values.
Army Athletic Director Tom Theodorakis echoed this sentiment, highlighting the leadership and selfless service displayed by the Picketts.
Larry Pickett Jr. had participated in the Black Knights' 30-27 overtime loss to Tarleton State on Friday and is scheduled to play next on Saturday against Kansas State.
No injuries to the Picketts were reported, and the investigation into the crash is ongoing.