Reporter Saves Teen From Exploding Car on Maryland Highway

When Tom Costello saw a car fly past him and slam into a concrete barrier on Maryland's Capital Beltway last Tuesday, he knew someone needed help fast. The NBC News senior correspondent watched the vehicle flip completely, explode, and burst into flames across the highway.

Costello immediately dialed 911 and rushed to the wreckage, expecting the worst. Instead, he found a 17-year-old driver still alive and conscious behind the wheel, though clearly in shock and unable to speak beyond saying "everything hurts."

The fire was spreading rapidly beneath the car. Costello knew he couldn't move the injured teen alone without risking further harm, so he started frantically waving down passing drivers.

In a stroke of incredible luck, an orthopedic surgeon and a nurse stopped to help. The three strangers worked together with precision: the surgeon stabilized the teen's neck and head, Costello supported his torso, and the nurse handled his legs.

They lifted the boy out of the smoking wreckage just moments before the entire car exploded. Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service confirmed the teen survived the crash.

Why This Inspires

This story shows what's possible when trained professionals and willing bystanders come together in a crisis. Costello could have simply called 911 and kept driving, but he stopped. The surgeon and nurse could have assumed first responders had it handled, but they pulled over.

Their quick thinking and teamwork turned what should have been a fatal crash into a rescue story. None of them were on duty, wearing uniforms, or looking for recognition. They just saw someone who needed help and acted.

The next day, Costello was back on the air as usual, downplaying his role. His advice to parents was simple: talk to your kids about safe driving, because second chances like this one don't come often.

Three strangers, one burning car, and a teenager who gets to go home to his family.