A courageous PC who freed a man trapped in a car on fire, moments before it exploded, has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2025.

On 3 August 2024, PC Jonathan Tatam, from Dyfed-Powys Police, responded to a report of a road traffic collision on a single-track road outside of Carmarthen involving three vehicles: two cars and a tractor.

The car in the middle was on fire, and an occupant was trapped. The trapped male could be heard screaming in the background during the 999 call.

On arrival, PC Tatam quickly assessed the scene. Seeing the fire spreading to nearby bushes and through the car, he ran back to the police vehicle to collect a fire extinguisher to dampen the flames and slow the fire's spread. The trapped driver was trying to free himself, but his foot appeared to be stuck.

While the male continued to struggle, PC Tatam dealt with the fire and looked for tools to help free the man, but found nothing that could assist.

He returned to the vehicle to assist the man, who managed to free himself. PC Tatam then pulled the victim out and, with the help of a member of the public and a colleague, dragged him away from the vehicle.

Moments after he was removed, the vehicle was fully alight and exploded before the Fire and Rescue Service arrived.

PC Tatam continued to manage the scene, ensuring the safety of others and facilitating access for fire and ambulance services. The man sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Cardiff.

The man suffered third-degree burns to his legs and lower torso, requiring skin grafts, as well as a fractured femur and facial fractures from the collision. PC Tatam’s intervention was crucial in preventing more severe injuries, or worse.

Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Constable Richard Lewis said: “As chief constable, it gave me a great sense of pride when I heard of the courageous actions of PC Tatam that day.

“There was a considerable threat to his own safety, however he put himself at risk to ensure the safety of others.

“It is important that his swift actions, which made a difference between life and death, is commended.  

“PC Tatam should feel immensely proud for being nominated for this year’s Police Bravery Awards.”

Dyfed-Powys Police Federation Chair Delme Rees said: “We couldn’t be any prouder of Jonathan for the exceptional courage and quick thinking he displayed in this rapidly deteriorating situation.

 “With the fire spreading and the person inside the car becoming more desperate all the time, it would’ve been easy for Jonathan to let panic set in himself, but he kept a cool head and remained focused on the job at hand – which is excellent policing.

“There is no doubt his actions rescued the victim from an even worse outcome, especially when you consider the injuries that were sustained.

“Jonathan is absolutely deserving of his nomination. I’d like to wish him all the best for the Bravery Awards, where I’m sure he’ll have a great time being celebrated for the outstanding officer he is.”