Christian Leon, a new NYPD officer, joined the force in 2021 after a remarkable rescue by Detective James Fares, who saved him from a burning car. Leon expressed, “I wanted to follow in the footsteps of the heroes who saved lives.”
Leon, now 24, graduated from the police academy recently, just under five years after that fateful night on November 18, 2021, when his vehicle began to smoke on the Grand Central Parkway. It was during this harrowing experience that he realized his rescuer was a detective, recognizing his badge, although he didn’t learn Fares’s name until they were reunited at the department’s Gun & Shield Day ceremony.
He recalled, “I was almost speechless. At some point, all I can say is thank you, because he just saved my life, and it’s been like four years since then. I’m really glad he’s here with me. I want to give back through support and service to others and the community.”
Leon had been studying pre-med at the time of the accident in Corona, Queens. However, witnessing Fares’s selfless act inspired him to change his career path.
He shared his recollection of that night, “I remember having a biology final around that time. I was stuck in traffic, and suddenly, I got hit from behind.”
“Detective Fares acted right away,” Leon remembered. “He pulled me out of the car and assured me everything was going to be okay, called for an ambulance—I’m here because of him. Now I want to help those who need it.” Fortunately, Leon emerged from the crash with minor injuries, mainly shaken from the deploying airbags and underwent a hospital checkup.
Leon noted, “I don’t remember much about the crash. But I distinctly recall the detective and his shield; those memories will stay with me.” Fares, who works for the Queens Motor Vehicle Crimes Unit, said he was coming home from work when he noticed Leon’s car swerving and smoking.
“I stopped as quickly as I could and ran to help, pulling him out of the car,” Fares described. “It was instinctual. I’m glad he’s okay and everything turned out fine.” Their reunion, just a day before Leon officially became part of New York’s Finest, was particularly meaningful for Fares.
“It feels like my good deeds have come full circle. I’m happy to share this moment with Christian,” he remarked.
Having served for nine years, Fares had the opportunity to share some advice with Leon, who hopes to become a detective himself one day. “I told him to work hard and do whatever he can to help people. If you keep at it, I guarantee you’ll earn that shield,” he advised.
The inspiring story caught the attention of Police Chief Jessica Tisch, who highlighted it during a ceremony. “For Christian and his family, the risk taken by a stranger meant everything. They remained strangers until just yesterday,” she said, recounting how Leon could finally thank Detective Fares.
Among the newly appointed officers was Casey Kloepfer, who also joined the NYPD, following in the footsteps of his father, Officer Ronald Kloepfer, who died during the 9/11 attacks while rescuing others.
Casey plans to carry his father’s badge number, which he considers an “honor.” He reflected on his father’s legacy, saying, “I always think of my dad as a superhero. He did an amazing job at ESU, and I’ve always respected and admired him.”
Another new officer, Erica Tierney, 26, follows her uncle, Officer Stephen Driscoll, who also lost his life on September 11 while helping victims. “I was just a year old at the time, but I still meet people who remember the Driscoll name and share how he impacted their lives,” she shared.
Growing up around police officers created a supportive environment for Tierney. “They do so much for their families. It’s heartwarming to see everyone come together,” she said.
Commissioner Tisch acknowledged the legacy families during a crowded ceremony, expressing, “Thank you for your dedication to this city.”
