On Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 10:40 a.m. CPD Officer David Rusher observed heavy smoke coming from a vehicle (1999 Lincoln Town Car) that was stopped at Blossom & Assembly Streets. The engine block of the vehicle was engulfed with flames, which reached temperatures that caused the vehicle’s tires to explode. Officer Rusher quickly ran to the vehicle in fear of occupant’s safety. Upon reaching the vehicle Officer Rusher noticed that the driver’s door was open and the victim (Ms. Sarah Pruitt, age 67) was disoriented. Because of the heavy smoke that was in the vehicle Officer Rusher was unable to see; he then asked Pruitt if there were any passengers in the vehicle. Pruitt stated that there were none. In fear of Pruitt’s safety, Officer Rusher pulled her out of the vehicle. Shortly after, he heard an audible explosion from the vehicle. Aware of possible secondary explosions, Officer Rusher ensured Pruitt’s safety by placing her approximately 100 yards from the burning vehicle, and then blocked traffic to prevent any injuries or damage to other motorists. Columbia Fire Fighters responded to the incident and extinguished the fire.