Off-Duty Officer and Retired Officer Save Driver’s Life After Vehicle Crashes Into Pole in Fairhaven

In the blink of an eye, two officers’ quick actions helped save a life in Fairhaven on the night of April 15, 2025. What could have been a tragic accident instead became a story of courage and community, as an off-duty officer and a retired officer stepped in to help a driver trapped in a vehicle that crashed into a utility pole.

The Terrifying Crash

It was around 9:30 PM when a call came through to Fairhaven police about a single-vehicle crash on Route 6. A 48-year-old driver from New Bedford lost control of his car, crashing it into a utility pole. The car was severely damaged, and the driver was left unconscious, pinned inside the wreckage.

At that moment, Officer Rachel Harris, an off-duty member of the Fairhaven Police Department, and Tom Sullivan, a retired officer who had served for over 25 years, were both in the area. They didn’t hesitate. What followed was an extraordinary response from two people who knew exactly what to do — but this time, it was personal.

Acting on Instinct

As soon as Officer Harris saw the car wrapped around the pole, she knew there was no time to waste. “I could see the car, and I could see the driver wasn’t moving,” Harris said. “I knew I had to get to him. Every second counts in a situation like that.”

Without hesitation, Harris pulled over and rushed to the vehicle. The driver was unresponsive and struggling to breathe. She immediately called for emergency backup but understood that time was running out for the man trapped inside.

Luckily, Sullivan, who was also passing by, pulled over to help. With decades of experience in law enforcement, Sullivan knew exactly what needed to be done. The two officers worked together as a team, trying to stabilize the driver and keep him conscious until help arrived.

“I’ve been in a lot of situations over the years, but when you’re standing there and you realize you might be the only chance someone has to survive, it changes everything,” Sullivan said. “You do what you’ve been trained to do, but there’s a real urgency when you’re looking at someone who might not make it.”

A Moment of Hope

Despite the terrifying circumstances, Harris and Sullivan didn’t give up. Harris spoke to the unconscious driver, urging him to stay awake and reassuring him that help was on the way. Sullivan, with his experience, made sure the driver’s airways were clear, trying to keep him as calm as possible in a chaotic situation.

The two officers worked together seamlessly, each knowing their role without needing to say much. It was clear to them both that saving this man’s life was their first priority.

“Tom was calm under pressure,” Harris recalled. “He had this quiet confidence about him, which helped me stay focused. We just knew we had to do everything we could.”

Within minutes, Fairhaven EMS arrived on the scene, and paramedics immediately took over. They quickly transported the driver to St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, where doctors confirmed that he was critically injured but alive. His chances of survival were greatly improved, thanks to the actions of Harris and Sullivan.

A Grateful Community

The story of the two officers’ heroics has since spread throughout Fairhaven. Police Chief Carla Simmons praised the officers for their quick thinking and professionalism. “They were in the right place at the right time, but it was their instincts and training that made all the difference,” she said. “Their actions saved a life.”

For Harris, the praise feels secondary to the fact that the driver is still alive. “I just did what anyone else would do in that situation,” she said. “I’m thankful I was there, but I’m even more thankful that he’s still here today.”

Sullivan, now retired, agreed. “It was about doing what’s right. I didn’t think twice. I think all officers, whether they’re on duty or not, are always ready to help when someone’s in need.”

While the two officers remain humble about their actions, the community has embraced them as heroes. Local businesses have shown support, and residents have come together to thank them for their courage. A local town hall meeting is even being planned in their honor, where both Harris and Sullivan will be recognized for their life-saving efforts.

A Long Road Ahead

The driver, who has asked to remain anonymous, is still recovering in the hospital, but doctors are optimistic about his recovery. His family expressed gratitude for the officers’ swift actions, which undoubtedly helped save his life.

For the officers, this incident is a reminder of why they chose to serve and protect their community. Harris, still relatively new to the force, said it reaffirmed her commitment to helping others, while Sullivan, who retired a few years ago, said the experience reminded him that the work of a law enforcement officer doesn’t end when you take off the badge.

As for the Fairhaven community, the crash and the officers’ response have left an indelible mark on everyone. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the most challenging moments, heroes can emerge from the most unexpected places.