Small explosions could be heard coming from the sedan as the fuel and other flammable items inside ignited.
Sources say the car may have been the focus of a police pursuit moments before the crash.
"If the trooper didn't come up when he did, he could've burned to death in the car. He was transported to the hospital," said James Dermouy, Matteson Fire Department.
The driver has been charged as a juvenile for possession of a stolen car.
