Police and Good Samaritans save woman from fiery vehicle crash
Canton Township police are crediting the exceptional actions of officers and witnesses in the early morning fiery crash that sent two drivers to the hospital.According to police reports, Canton officers responded to a call of a two-car crash on westbound Michigan Avenue at about 2:12 a.m. July 5. When they arrived on the scene, officers reported a blue Chevrolet Trax, driven by a 31-year-old Canton woman and a silver Ford Fusion, driven by a 29-year-old Canton, woman engulfed in flames following a vehicle crash.
A 6-year-old child riding in the burning Ford Fusion was rescued by a passing motorist who stopped to give aid. The driver of the vehicle was trapped in the car and multiple attempts to rescue her by police officers were unsuccessful, according to police reports. Witnesses said the officers worked relentlessly to control the blaze, using every fire extinguisher available at the scene, including one provided by a passing semi-truck driver who also stopped to try to help.
The officers continued their efforts until Canton Township fire trucks and firefighters arrived on the scene. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire and extricate the trapped driver, according to police reports of the incident.
Canton police officials commended the “exceptional courage, professionalism, and determination displayed by our officers and the Good Samaritans who rendered aid. Their quick actions were critical in this life-threatening situation.”
Canton emergency responders transported the driver of the Chevrolet Trax to a local hospital and she has been treated and released, according to police reports. The driver of the Ford Fusion remained hospitalized in serious but stable condition at press time.
Police said an investigation into the crash is ongoing. “Preliminary information suggests alcohol may have been a contributing factor,” according to a social media post from police.
