An inspector who risked his life to save passengers from a smoking car that smelt of fuel after it was involved in an accident has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2025.

Whilst travelling to work on the M4 motorway on 26 March 2024, Inspector James McKenna, from Avon and Somerset Police, became aware of a road traffic incident that had just happened.

There had been a collision between a car and a lorry. The driver and front seat passenger had managed to get out of the car and, as Insp McKenna approached the vehicle, he could see a teenage girl behind the front passenger seat and a young boy trapped behind the driver’s seat.

Other members of public at the scene advised Insp McKenna the girl and boy were already dead, but he made the quick decision he needed to attempt to save their lives. The car was smoking and there was a distinct smell of fuel with a risk of fire.

Insp McKenna managed to extract the girl and get her away from the vehicle. He immediately returned to the vehicle to attend to the boy who was trapped. Insp McKenna climbed into the rear of the vehicle and after a few minutes, managed to free him from the vehicle.

The boy was unconscious and not breathing so Insp McKenna immediately commenced CPR for 10 minutes before other police officers arrived to assist him.

Air ambulance helicopters arrived at the scene and took over the treatment of the young boy who sadly passed away at the side of the road.

Insp McKenna demonstrated great determination to save life. He also demonstrated extreme bravery by getting into a severely damaged car that was smoking and smelling of fuel, putting the safety of the occupants of the vehicle above his own.

This incident had a significant impact on Insp McKenna who had to take time off work and treatment for the psychological effects. The treatment has concluded, and he is now back at work.

Avon and Somerset Police Federation Branch Secretary Tom Gent said, “James is recognised for his extraordinary bravery and decisive action, he exemplifies the very highest standards of policing. 

“We also acknowledge the profound effect that his courageous actions had and the resilience he has shown demonstrating his commitment to public service.”

Avon and Somerset Police Chief Constable Sarah Crew said: "I am immensely proud to support the nomination of James McKenna for a Police Bravery Award. His actions on 26 March 2024 exemplify the highest standards of courage and dedication that we strive for in our force.

“Despite the significant personal risk, James demonstrated exceptional bravery by entering a severely damaged vehicle to rescue two young children, all while managing a volatile situation with other individuals at the scene. His quick thinking, decisive action, and unwavering commitment to saving lives, even in the face of danger, are truly commendable.

“James's determination and resilience in such a critical and challenging situation are a testament to his character and professionalism. He is a credit to our service, and his actions deserve the highest recognition."

Inspector James Mckenna said: “It’s a day I will never forget, it all happened so quickly but I just wanted to do everything I could.  I have children and I don’t consider what I did as especially brave but absolutely wanted to do everything I possibly could to try to save them even if there was risk to myself there.”