Deputy Pulls Driver From Burning SUV After Crash Caused by Overdose

A Benton County Sheriff's Deputy likely saved this person's life, or at least kept them from more serious injury Monday morning.

  Deputy pulls OD'd driver from flaming SUV after crash

Shortly after 9:18 AM Monday, BCSO Corporal Benitez was patrolling near West Kennewick Ave. and Highway 395 when he noticed an SUV that appeared to have struck a parked truck and camper.

From the surrounding businesses, it appeared to be in the Rite Aid Parking lot. The front of the SUV was on fire and flames were spreading to the truck.  The driver was unconscious behind the wheel, and Corporal Benitez was able to quickly drag him out to safety and begin lifesaving procedures.

  Officials say the driver had apparently passed out from drug overdose

Benitez kept working on the man until Kennewick Fire and EMS workers arrived. Remarkably, the man was medically cleared after being treated and was taken to an area hospital for further examination before he was carted off to the Benton County jail.

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Authorities didn't say what drug or drugs the man had taken, but now he's facing a slew of charges, including (according to KPD):

"...suspicion of DUI and two counts of Reckless Endangerment (the parked vehicle was occupied and also sustained damage from both the collision and fire)."

No one else or any other property was damaged, but kudos to Corporal Benitez for saving the man, and preventing further tragedy.