Several good Samaritans and a Plum police officer were recognized for their efforts in saving a woman from a fiery crash last month.
A Lower Burrell woman suffered a medical emergency while driving the morning of July 17.
It became a tumultuous ride as her vehicle struck a street sign and sheared off a Verizon pole, and things got worse from there, according to a report from Plum Mayor Harry Schlegel.
The woman’s car crashed into another Verizon pole near the intersection of Northern Avenue and Hulton Road in Plum, struck a fire hydrant and came to a rest upside down in a ditch with the car enveloped in flames and the driver trapped.
Schlegel said several citizens rushed in to help, including Penn Hills residents Geoff Kolton, Robert Fink and Brandon Revino; Plum resident Robert Dusch; and Plum police Officer Jason Saunders.
According to the report, Kolton, Fink and Revino pulled the driver from the vehicle while Dusch and Saunders used fire extinguishers and rendered aid.
“The quick action of the good Samaritans saved her life,” said Plum police Chief Lanny Conley.
No other injuries were reported.
Schlegel, at a council meeting Aug. 12, gave Kolton, Fink and Revino proclamations for their heroic efforts and Saunders recognition for a job well done. Dusch did not attend the meeting.
“One of the greatest actions a person can do is save the life of another human being,” Schlegel said. “Plum Borough recognizes and values heroism and acts of courage by citizens.”
The mayor said the men avoided a tragedy by stopping to help.
“You did not have to stop, but you did and that is very much appreciated,” Schlegel said.
