HomeMy WebLinkAboutCitizens Award Dec. 2025Contact: Lauren Siebenaler, Senior Communications Coordinator
952-833-9537 • LSiebenaler@EdinaMN.gov • EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Edina Police to Honor Couple with Citizens Award
Edina, Minn., Dec. 12, 2025 – The Edina Police Department will present a Citizens Award at the Dec. 16 City Council meeting to James and Susan Bizal for their quick, life-saving actions
after a Nov. 20 car crash.
The Bizals were driving on Minnesota Highway 100 near Benton Avenue when they came upon a two-vehicle crash, with one vehicle fully engulfed in flames and a man still inside. James quickly
grabbed his fire extinguisher and knocked down part of the fire. He then approached the vehicle to assist the man inside, who was experiencing a medical emergency. Working together,
James and Susan removed the victim from the vehicle and dragged him to safety.
“The actions of this couple clearly saved a life,” said Edina Police Officer Elissa Kapala, who assisted the State Patrol on this accident. “In addition, the circumstances the Bizals
put themselves in clearly endangered their own lives. Not only was there a visibly growing fire, but the roadway conditions were also slippery.”
The victim was transported to Hennepin County Medical Center with minor injuries. The Edina Police Department did not receive an update on his status.
For more information about the Edina Police Department, visit EdinaMN.gov/Police.
-30-