February 20, 2025 - Texas Department of Public Safety State Trooper Taylor Buster has been recognized for his lifesaving efforts performed in Shelby County on State Highway 87 North on October 16, 2024.
When it was learned an individual was trapped inside a burning house, Trooper Buster was one of those who responded to the scene and being the first to arrive he acted quickly and rescued the resident.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin, recognized the service of several Texans at the first PSC meeting of the year [February 13, 2025] at DPS Headquarters in Austin. PSC Commissioners and Colonel Martin presented two William P. Clements Excellence Awards, two Director’s Citations, two Director’s Awards and seven Lifesaving Awards.
“Today, we proudly recognize the dedication and bravery of some of the heroes who call Texas home,” said Colonel Martin. “Their character, selflessness and unwavering sense of duty represent the best of our state and this department—it’s an honor to thank them for what they’ve done.”
Life Saving Award:
On Oct. 16, 2024, Trooper Taylor Buster (Center) was on routine patrol in Shelby County when he received radio communication about a house fire with a subject trapped inside. The subject could not exit the home due to the dense smoke and was advised to get on the floor of a bathroom until first responders arrived. Upon arrival, Trooper Buster, without hesitation, exited his patrol unit and [entered a] door of the residence while the house was fully engulfed in flames. Trooper Buster began giving callouts but did not hear any responses, so he exited the home and went to the back of the house. As he started giving callouts again, he heard a subject yelling from inside. Trooper Buster kicked the rear door open to access the home and began removing items blocking his path to the subject. Trooper Buster crawled to the subject, grabbed his arm and removed him from the house with the assistance of a nearby citizen. The subject was treated by EMS and transported to a local hospital for smoke inhalation.
In recognition of his significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Trooper Taylor Buster was awarded the Lifesaving Award.
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