HOUSTON, TX – In the early morning hours of Saturday, January 17, 2026, a two-vehicle crash caused by a wrong-way driver occurred in the southbound lanes of Tomball Parkway, leaving one driver deceased and another trapped inside a burning vehicle.
Deputy John Syzdek and Sergeant Jonathan Tirk were among the first deputies on scene. Working alongside civilian wrecker drivers from Precision Towing, they faced extreme conditions to rescue the trapped driver from a burning SUV.
Using fire extinguishers and coordinated efforts, the group was able to pull the driver from the vehicle, saving his life. The driver remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition.
Deputy Syzdek and Sergeant Tirk are available to discuss the rescue and the teamwork that made it possible.
WHO: Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy John Syzdek and Sergeant Jonathan Tirk
WHAT: Media availability highlighting a lifesaving rescue following a major overnight crash on Tomball Parkway, where HCSO deputies and Precision Towing tow truck operators pulled a trapped driver from a burning vehicle.
WHEN: Wednesday, January 21, 2026 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Media Room 1200 Baker Street Houston, TX 77002
