Dramatic video shows Fort Worth officers and bystanders lifting SUV to rescue baby trapped underneath after crash
By Doug Myers, Amelia Mugavero
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TEXAS (KTVT) — Dramatic video released Friday by Fort Worth police shows the moment officers and bystanders lifted an SUV to rescue a 1-year-old girl trapped underneath — a heart-stopping rescue followed by life-saving efforts that helped the child survive.
The incident happened the morning of Thursday, Oct. 23, at Eastchase Parkway and I-30, in East Fort Worth.
Moments before the rescue, the child and her mother had been ejected in a violent crash.
During the rescue, onlookers pointed, shouted, and scrambled beneath the wreckage. It’s unclear exactly who said what, but everyone on the scene appeared actively involved.
One voice cried out: “I think the baby’s under.”
Officers and civilians began pushing the vehicle. Urgent commands echoed: “Keep moving. Keep moving.”
They lifted the SUV and found the child.
“She has a pulse. Is she breathing, though?” one person asked.
An officer began chest compressions.
“There it is. Keep working.”
“Come on, momma.”
Signs of life emerged — a hum, then a cry.
“There you go, momma.”
“Cry, please.”
The baby was alive.
Training meets instinct As they worked to rescue the child, their training guided their actions in a high-pressure moment.
“You don’t feel the relief right then and there,” said Officer Buddy Calzada, a spokesperson for Fort Worth police. “You feel the relief moments later, after your adrenaline is all worked up. You do what the police department has trained you to do.”
A chief’s decision to share heroism The dramatic bodycam footage was posted to social media shortly after the incident. Calzada said it was a direct call from the department’s new chief, Eddie Garcia.
“He said these officers are heroes. The community needs to know how amazing the Fort Worth Police Department is, and he wanted to get it out immediately,” Calzada said.
A message from the chief Chief Garcia also posted to X, formerly Twitter, writing: “Our prayers are with this little angel as a full recovery is expected. Not quite sure a better example of PROTECT and SERVE, exists.”
A department’s mission, reflected in action For Calzada, the video is more than just a viral moment — it’s a reflection of the department’s values.
“It says on our vehicles that we’re dedicated to protect,” Calzada said. “You know, we give you service with respect. And nothing says that more than the video…”
Ongoing investigation The baby is now stable in the hospital. Her mother remains hospitalized with serious injuries.
Investigators are still working to determine whether the child was properly restrained in a car seat.
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