WASHINGTON — Maryland rapper Napolean Epps Jr., known by his stage name Y.N.G., used his 12 years of firefighting experience to save a life over the weekend.
While driving north on I-495 Saturday morning, Epps spotted thick black smoke rising in the distance. As he approached, he saw a car overturned and in flames on the southbound shoulder of the highway.
According to Maryland State Police, Epps quickly pulled over, climbed over the highway barrier, and ran across four lanes of traffic to reach the burning vehicle. He managed to pull the driver from the car before emergency crews arrived. The driver was taken to a nearby hospital, though their current condition has not been released.
Speaking to WUSA9, Epps described the intense scene:
“The engine area was on fire, and flames were coming through by the gas and brake pedals. There was heavy smoke inside the car,” he told digital producer Ittai Sopher.
Firefighters and state troopers later arrived to put out the blaze. Investigators said a mechanical failure caused the driver to lose control, leading to the rollover and fire.
Epps previously volunteered as a firefighter in Prince George’s and Charles counties for over a decade.
“In moments like that, I don’t hesitate—it’s not my first time pulling someone from a burning vehicle,” he said. “When someone’s life is at risk, I’m not the type to stand back and film. I act.”
