Off-Duty Rookie PC’s Heroic Rescue on the M3
Fresh-faced cop PC Jordan Janaway is set to be honoured next month after a gutsy off-duty rescue on the M3. Just months into her career, Janaway was driving to work near Winchester on November 14, 2020, when she spotted chaos unfolding on the motorway.
Brave Act in the Face of Danger
Janaway noticed a car parked dangerously on a hatched area beside the motorway slip road. Nearby, a man was lying partly in the live lane—her lane—forcing her to brake hard to avoid hitting him.
She jumped out and helped the driver explain what had happened: the man had been struck by the car after stepping into traffic. Together, they dragged the injured man to the safety of the hard shoulder.
Violent and Disturbed Attacker Threatens PC Janaway
Despite the man bleeding from a head wound and conscious, witnesses revealed he’d tried to attack another motorist with a hammer and was involved in a violent rampage linked to a mental health crisis. Janaway spotted the hammer lying in the second lane.
The injured man then lunged at Janaway, attempting to sexually assault her. She fought back, restraining him alongside a bystander until on-duty officers arrived to take over.
Police Praise Janaway’s Courage and Quick Thinking
“Jordan demonstrated enormous bravery and integrity by stopping to help while off-duty, at great risk to herself,” said Hampshire Police Federation Chair Zo Wakefield. “She almost certainly prevented the man’s death by dragging him from the live carriageway and restraining him, despite his size and aggression. We are very proud of her.”
It was later revealed the attacker had earlier assaulted his father with a hammer on the M3.
National Police Bravery Awards Nomination
PC Janaway, recognised for her fearless action, will attend the National Police Bravery Awards reception and ceremony in London this July. The awards celebrate officers across England and Wales who display extraordinary courage on or off duty.
Watch this space for more on Jordan Janaway’s well-deserved recognition.
