NEENAH — A Neenah resident is being hailed a hero after risking his own safety to help two people trapped Monday night in a burning vehicle.
According to a news release from Neenah police, the crash occurred around 9:40 p.m. in the 1300 block of Gillingham Road.
Police say a vehicle traveling southbound left the roadway, struck a fire hydrant, and then crashed into a tree.
A nearby resident heard the crash and immediately rushed to the scene. He found the vehicle on its side, smoking heavily, with a passenger screaming for help.
Despite the -8 degree temperature, the resident grabbed a fire extinguisher and attempted to put out the flames engulfing the engine compartment. He then helped the passenger climb down from the vehicle and assisted her to safety.
A Winnebago County Sheriff’s Deputy arrived shortly after and, with the resident’s assistance, helped the other passenger out and contain the fire after it reignited.
Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue quickly extinguished the blaze.
Both occupants were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The Neenah Police Department thanked the resident and also thanked the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue, Gold Cross Ambulance, and Neenah Main Auto Body Inc. Towing for their assistance.
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