On July 17, 2009, Patrolman Todd Bengtson, along with Patrolman Thomas Sartin responded to a one-car accident at the intersection of Slade Road and Grand Avenue. The vehicle had traveled off the roadway and into a wooded area. Upon arriving at the scene, the driver was found still seat-belted inside the vehicle. Upon attempting to open the locked door, a fire started under the passenger side of the vehicle and began filling the vehicle with smoke.
Officer Bengtson was able to break the rear and driver side windows of the vehicle and with assistance from Patrolman Sartin, he removed the operator from the vehicle and brought him from the wooded area to waiting emergency medical services personnel. It was later determined the operator was suffering from a severe diabetic condition. Officer Bengston's quick and alert actions, with disregard for his personal safety, resulted in saving the operator from serious physical injury or death. The department is proud to present the Life Saving Award to Patrolman Todd Bengtson.