Burning Shield: The Jason Schechterle Story

by Landon J Napoleon

When a taxi smashed into police officer Jason Schechterle’s patrol car, the fireball that consumed the vehicle should have killed him. But by a series of small miracles, Schechterle Dying would have been easier. As he would learn only after his own horrific ordeal, law enforcement officers across the country were perishing in similar fires, trapped inside burning Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors. Schechterle, who began a long, gruesome, and gut-wrenching battle back to health, would also take on Ford Motor Company in court to stop the heinous and ultimately preventable deaths. Interweaving narratives of human triumph, medical marvels, police procedure and high-stakes legal showdown, this “inspiring true story” (Kirkus Reviews) reveals a rare human being with an undeniable will to live. Burning The Jason Schechterle Story exemplifies the mystery and beauty of the human spirit, and the healing power of love.“A maimed cop fights to regain his life in this inspiring true story… Author [Landon J.] Napoleon scrupulously guides readers through Schechterle’s teen years, spent absorbing the sounds of REO Speedwagon, excelling at golf and falling in love—and into his laudable career in the Air Force. "Faithfully documented is every bump and nook on his road toward achieving his childhood wearing a Phoenix Police Department badge. As the enthusiastic rookie got his bearings in the routines of police work—which involved more picking up shoplifters at Wal-Mart than high-octane shootouts—his future fate was darkly foreshadowed by events elsewhere."All across the country, police officers were dying in exploding Ford Crown Victorias, and attorney Patrick J. McGroder III—“the legal equivalent of The Terminator ”—aimed to make Ford pay. Schechterle would be crucial in helping him. Napoleon, the author of several crime novels, is skilled at painting a scene in slangy strokes while balancing plotlines… this true story reads like a novel."—Kirkus Reviews“Burning The Jason Schechterle Story is a powerful, inspiring story of one man’s will to survive and to thrive in the face of horrific injuries. It is also a keen look into the workings of our police men and women and the close bonds that knit them together. We admire them, and we especially admire Jason Schechterle.”—Janet Napolitano, former Arizona governor (2002-2009) and Arizona attorney general (1998-2002)“Sad, exciting, life-changing and emotional, Burning The Jason Schechterle Story is an amazing story of one man’s triumph over tragedy with the support of an entire community.”—Jack Ballentine, former homicide detective and author of Murder for Hire“Jason Schechterle’s life has been one of joy, tragedy, love, and hope. In Burning The Jason Schechterle Story, he motivates us with the power of positive thinking and living his life with optimism and gratitude. We learn the importance of chasing our dreams, but more importantly, overcoming our nightmares while touching and impacting lives all around us. This man is an inspiration and his story must be read and shared.”—Derrick HallPresident & CEO, Arizona Diamondbacks

390 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 4, 2014

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely excellent. To read the details of Jason's life and what he went through to get to the point of achieving his dream was interesting. Then what he went through to overcome the injuries he sustained when his Ford Crown Victoria police cruizer exploded with him in it and being burned beyond any recognition was sad and yet inspirational to me. I can't recommend this book enough to the law enforcement and firefighting communities.

[Phyllis Rundell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most inspiring, yet sad, stories of the strength and courage of the human spirit. Jason Schechterle, was badly burned in his patrol car and after having endured over 50 surgeries has dealt with the aftermath of the accident and resultant scaring with a positive attitude, gratitude, optimism, positive thinking, the love of Suzie his saintly wife and the support of his parents and siblings as well as his co-workers at the Phoenix Police Department and Phoenix Fire Department. Now retired from the Phoenix Police Department, he is now an inspirational speaker, and has established a scholarship to assist the families of officers who are injured on the job. This is a very uplifting and challenging story. The author has done an outstanding job in presenting this story. Don't miss this one!!!

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

We were invited to hear Jason Schechterle speak this summer. His message was highly inspiring, and touched my heart, as well as my kids’ hearts. We talked about his story for days.

My husband read his book and then gave it to me. I can’t say enough good things about this story, and the wonderful hero that Jason is. It’s a book about tragedy and suffering, bad guys, bad choices and horrific consequences. It’s about hope and healing, good guys, heroes, perseverance and family, love and acceptance.

It encompasses every theme and trope in literature, and will leave you filled with compassion and a new determination to do better in your life.

Read it.

[Kimberly Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

had the honor of hearing Jason tell his story in Feb 2024. After his presentation, I was able to meet him and shake his hand. At the time I could not put into words the admiration and gratitude I was feeling. Through tear filled eyes, I could only squeak out a simple “Thank you.”

I immediately purchased this book so I could not only read more details about his harrowing story, but to also show my support.

It is amazing what the human body and spirit can survive and Jason is prime example of that. I believe all people, young adult and up, would strongly benefit from hearing Jason’s story.

Great job to Jason and L. Napoleon.

[Jillian · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story itself is harrowing and important, but the writing made this such a tedious read. The book could've been at least 80 pages shorter had the author not felt the need to remind the audience every other chapter about Jason's burning desire to do nothing but be a cop, and of the several things that happened at just the right moment that invariably saved his life the night of the accident. There was no need to reiterate these things as often as he did, it only served to make this an irritating read.

[Thomas Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is powerful, emotional, and deeply inspiring 🔥📖
Jason’s journey shows what true strength and resilience really mean 💪
It’s not just about survival — it’s about finding purpose after tragedy 🌅
The storytelling feels personal, honest, and incredibly moving ❤️
You’ll feel heartbreak, hope, and admiration all at once 😢✨
A reminder that the human spirit can rise even after life’s toughest moments 🌟

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burning Shield is a story that stays with you long after you finish it 📚💭
Jason’s courage in the face of unimaginable challenges is truly inspiring 🙌
The book highlights bravery, faith, and the power of never giving up 🛡️
It reads like a novel but carries the weight of real-life heroism 🎖️
Every chapter pulls you deeper into a story of strength and transformation 🔄
An unforgettable read about resilience, identity, and hope 💖

[Vijender Jangra · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 Burning Shield is one of the most powerful true stories I’ve ever read.
🔥 Jason Schechterle’s journey redefines courage and resilience.
💔 The pain, loss, and emotional struggle feel deeply real.
🛡️ This book shows what it truly means to protect and serve.
📖 Written like a novel but grounded in raw truth.
⭐ Every page pulls you deeper into his life.
🙏 An inspiring reminder that the human spirit can survive anything.

[Aneja Ajay · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 This book shook me to my core from the very first chapter.
📘 Jason’s story is heartbreaking, brave, and incredibly honest.
💔 The accident changes everything, yet hope never disappears.
🛡️ A true hero’s story beyond uniform and duty.
📖 The writing is emotional, vivid, and gripping.
⭐ I couldn’t put it down once I started.
🙏 A must-read for anyone seeking real-life inspiration.

[Mark Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Burning Shield reads like a movie playing in your mind.
🔥 The pain and recovery journey is deeply emotional.
💔 You feel every loss, every fear, every small victory.
🛡️ Jason’s strength is beyond physical courage.
📘 The author captures emotions beautifully.
⭐ This book stays with you long after finishing it.
🙏 Truly unforgettable and life-changing.

[Ankita · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 This is not just a book, it’s an experience.
📘 Jason Schechterle’s life story is brutally honest.
💔 The accident scenes are intense and emotional.
🛡️ The recovery journey is inspiring and powerful.
📖 Written with empathy and respect.
⭐ I cried, reflected, and felt grateful for life.
🙏 A book everyone should read once.

[Max Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 From hero to survivor, this story is unforgettable.
🔥 The courage shown after tragedy is unbelievable.
💔 The emotional pain feels raw and real.
🛡️ It shows true strength is mental, not physical.
📖 Smooth storytelling with deep emotions.
⭐ One of the most inspiring books I’ve read.
🙏 Highly recommended for all readers.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The company I work for is launching a new product to market in 2020, an alternative to typical autograft skin transplants. I was intrigued to hear Jason Schechterle talk to us about his experience. Outstanding.

[Delu Khushbu · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 A story of strength, loss, and hope.
📘 Jason’s journey is incredibly inspiring.
💔 The emotions feel real and deep.
🛡️ True heroism is shown beautifully.
📖 Excellent storytelling.
⭐ One of the best true stories ever.
🙏 Highly recommended to everyone.

[Zara Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 A story of courage and resilience.
🔥 Jason’s life changes instantly.
💔 Emotional struggles are deeply felt.
🛡️ True heroism is mental strength.
📘 Well-paced and gripping.
⭐ Very impactful.
🙏 Worth reading.

[Emily Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 A heartbreaking yet hopeful story.
🔥 Jason’s journey is life-altering.
💔 The emotional depth is incredible.
🛡️ Strength shines through adversity.
📖 Smooth and powerful writing.
⭐ One of the best true stories.
🙏 Truly inspiring.

[Henry Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Burning Shield is unforgettable.
🔥 The courage shown is extraordinary.
💔 Loss and hope go hand in hand.
🛡️ A true warrior’s journey.
📘 Well-written and emotional.
⭐ Highly recommended.
🙏 Inspiring beyond words.

[William Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 A deeply human story of survival.
📘 Jason’s experience feels real and raw.
💔 The emotional pain is intense.
🛡️ Strength is shown in vulnerability.
📖 Beautiful storytelling.
⭐ Very impactful read.
🙏 A powerful true story.

[Saloni Jakhar · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 This book changes how you see life.
🔥 The tragedy is devastating.
💔 Healing is slow but meaningful.
🛡️ Jason’s courage is admirable.
📖 Emotional and engaging writing.
⭐ Worth every page.
🙏 Strongly recommended.

[Zadie Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 A story that teaches gratitude.
🔥 Jason’s strength is unbelievable.
💔 Pain and perseverance are well captured.
🛡️ True heroism is shown here.
📘 Powerful narration.
⭐ One of the best books I’ve read.
🙏 Highly inspiring.

[Katty · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 This book left me speechless.
📘 Jason’s journey is heartbreaking and inspiring.
💔 The emotional pain feels real.
🛡️ A true example of resilience.
📖 Very well written.
⭐ A must-read for everyone.
🙏 Deeply moving story.

[Erika Sinner · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 A powerful and emotional biography.
🔥 The accident scene is shocking.
💔 Recovery is described realistically.
🛡️ Strength beyond physical limits.
📖 Smooth and gripping writing.
⭐ Truly unforgettable.
🙏 A story of courage and hope.

[Vishu · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 This book shows real-life heroism.
🔥 The story is raw and emotional.
💔 Loss and healing are deeply explored.
🛡️ Jason’s spirit is unbreakable.
📘 Excellent storytelling style.
⭐ I couldn’t stop reading.
🙏 A deeply inspiring read.

[Ryan Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 An unforgettable journey of pain and strength.
📘 Jason’s courage is inspiring beyond words.
💔 The emotional depth is intense.
🛡️ True bravery shines through adversity.
📖 Written with honesty and respect.
⭐ A book that stays with you.
🙏 Highly recommended.

[Leo · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 This story broke my heart and rebuilt it.
🔥 Jason’s life changes in seconds.
💔 The struggle feels deeply personal.
🛡️ A story of resilience and hope.
📖 Engaging and emotional narration.
⭐ One of the most touching books ever.
🙏 Life-changing read.

[Grace Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Burning Shield is a testament to human strength.
🔥 The accident is life-altering and terrifying.
💔 The emotional recovery is even harder.
🛡️ Jason’s mindset is inspiring.
📘 Well-researched and heartfelt writing.
⭐ I highly recommend this book.
🙏 Truly powerful and motivating.

[Sophia Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 This book is emotionally intense and honest.
📘 Jason’s courage is extraordinary.
💔 Pain and healing are described beautifully.
🛡️ True heroism is redefined here.
📖 Smooth yet powerful storytelling.
⭐ Left a strong impact on me.
🙏 A must-read true story.

[Vishal · Rating 5 out of 5]

📘 A deeply moving and powerful book.
🔥 The tragedy is shocking and heartbreaking.
💔 Recovery feels painfully real.
🛡️ Jason’s determination is inspiring.
📖 Written with great sensitivity.
⭐ I felt every emotion while reading.
🙏 A story of hope and survival.

[Oscar Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 This book made me reflect on life and gratitude.
🔥 Jason’s journey is intense and emotional.
💔 Every chapter hits hard.
🛡️ Strength is shown in vulnerability here.
📘 Beautifully written true story.
⭐ One of the best biographies I’ve read.
🙏 Truly inspiring and unforgettable.

[George Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 A powerful true story told with honesty.
📘 The pain and struggle feel very real.
💔 You understand loss on a deeper level.
🛡️ Jason’s courage is beyond imagination.
📖 The storytelling keeps you hooked.
⭐ A book that changes perspective.
🙏 Highly emotional and meaningful.