Army Football Player Larry Pickett, Jr. Rescues Man From Burning Vehicle Near West Point

Army football player Larry Pickett, Jr. rescued a man from a burning vehicle near West Point early Sunday morning, the program told CBS Sports.

According to the Fort Montgomery (N.Y.) Fire Department, the car had crashed into a utility pole and burst into flames. Firefighters rushed to the scene to extinguish the blaze.

Pickett’s father said his son, a defensive back for the Black Knights, ran toward the scene despite several downed power lines surrounding the crash site, pulling the man to safety before the fire spread out of control.

“Thank you Jesus that this man will live to see another day!” Pickett’s father said in a social media post that included video of the incident. “I am so grateful for my son LJ for saving his life! Not only is he making an impact in the classroom and on the football field at the United States Military Academy at West Point, but he’s also making a difference in his community!”

Pickett, Jr. is in his second season with the Army football team and made his first appearance on the field in Friday’s overtime loss to Tarleton State.

“This is more than a display of leadership; it’s a testament to the character West Point is building in him—a readiness to go into the line of fire, not just for his country, but for anyone who needs it,” Pickett’s father said. “To see that courage and selflessness in action firsthand was truly incredible.”

“Thank you to our daughter Lauren for capturing this moment on video! Also, a huge thank you to the Highland Falls Police Department, Highland Falls Fire Department, and all the first responders who arrived on the scene so quickly. Whenever we visit the Academy, it’s a blessing to be surrounded by true heroes—both on and off the field,” he added.