Story perspectives

Heroic Officers Rescue College Student from Burning Jeep

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kervens Lesperance, a 19-year-old Long Island college student, was rescued from a burning Jeep after a crash last November by Suffolk County police officers, including Officer Craig Capobianco.
At a ceremony recognizing the officers, Lesperance expressed gratitude and said, "I’m grateful to be alive."
Friends who supported him during recovery praised the officers' quick actions.
The emotional reunion ended with the group of friends briefly discussing where to eat afterward.

History

Historical Context

In 1960, the Suffolk County Police Department was established, responding to over 100,000 emergency calls annually. The department's history includes numerous heroic rescues, exemplified by Officer Craig Capobianco's 2022 rescue of Kervens Lesperance from a burning Jeep. Such incidents underscore the vital role of first responders in emergencies and foster community trust in law enforcement.

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Story summary

Kervens Lesperance, a 19-year-old Long Island college student, was rescued from a burning Jeep after a crash last November by Suffolk County police officers, including Officer Craig Capobianco.
At a ceremony recognizing the officers, Lesperance expressed gratitude and said, "I’m grateful to be alive."
Friends who supported him during recovery praised the officers' quick actions.
The emotional reunion ended with the group of friends briefly discussing where to eat afterward.

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