HUNTSVILLE — It was a scene out of a movie: A car was wrapped in flames and there was a person inside.

That’s what Huntsville Police Investigator Scott Northcutt saw Feb. 18 when he came upon a serious crash at Pulaski Pike and Mallory Avenue in north Huntsville.

As he approached, Northcutt realized it was a Huntsville police car in flames and an officer was trapped inside.

Without hesitation, Northcutt rushed to the burning vehicle, where he found the officer severely injured – his uniform on fire and unable to escape due to a broken wrist.

Northcutt pulled the officer from the car and rolled him to the ground to extinguish the flames.

Then, moments later, the vehicle became engulfed, igniting live ammunition inside. Northcutt shielded the officer with his own body and moved him to safety.

The heat was so intense, parts of Northcutt’s jacket melted.

And, thanks to Northcutt’s quick, fearless actions, the injured officer survived.

For his bravery and selflessness, Northcutt was awarded a life-saving medal Thursday at the Huntsville City Council meeting.

The life-saving medal is one of HPD’s top honors, awarded in accordance with its official directive on Awards and Commendations.

Northcutt’s courage and selflessness under pressure are a credit to himself, the department and the city.