Karl Gardner

Vermont State Police

Duty Station: Burlington, Vt.
Hometown: Groton, Vt.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Christopher Pandolfi, along with Vermont State Police Detective Sergeant Karl Gardner observed a vehicle engulfed in flames while driving on Interstate 89 in Vermont on Feb. 25, 2015. The two stopped their vehicle to control traffic and render aid. They noticed an elderly man at the rear of the burning vehicle and instructed him to move away from the vehicle. The man had previously suffered a stroke and was having difficulty walking. Agent Pandolfi and Sergeant Gardner then carried the man to a safe location before the vehicle exploded. At that time the man informed Pandolfi and Gardner there had been a propane tank and ammunition inside the vehicle.