The Village of Forest View recognized two police officers at its June 23 board meeting for exceptional work that prevented tragedy and solved a crime.
Officer Jonathan Rodriguez received a Life-Saving Award after rescuing a driver from a burning car on May 9. Police Chief Jim Ritz said Rodriguez arrived at a motor vehicle crash near Harlem and Ogden Avenue at 2:38 a.m. and found an occupant trapped inside a vehicle engulfed in flames.
“Officer Rodriguez immediately recognized the danger and physically forced open the driver’s side door,” Ritz said. “He successfully removed the driver moments before the car was fully engulfed in flames.”
The driver sustained a broken leg and arm but survived. The award citation praised Rodriguez for “quick thinking, bravery, and unwavering dedication to duty.”
Officer Antonio Whitfield received a Department Commendation for stopping a stolen vehicle on May 23 at 10:35 p.m. Whitfield spotted a car that disregarded a stop sign and had a broken driver’s side window and no license plates. When he activated his lights, the driver fled at high speed.
The vehicle fishtailed after striking a curb and became disabled. Three occupants ran from the car. After a brief foot pursuit, Whitfield took the driver into custody.
The driver was charged with possession of a stolen vehicle and possession of burglary tools.
Mayor, board members, and residents applauded both officers. Fellow officers attended to congratulate their colleagues.
