MARION COUNTY, Fla. – An off-duty Marion County paramedic is credited with helping to save the life of a driver trapped in a burning vehicle along Interstate 75 on Tuesday morning, according to a news release.
Marion County Fire Rescue officials said they were dispatched to a vehicle crash near Exit 341 in the northbound lanes of I-75 around 7 a.m.
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Critical care paramedic Stephen Cabrera, who was off-duty at the time and on his way to work, “sprang into action,” according to the release.
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MCFR officials said that as another citizen smashed the window of the vehicle, Cabrera opened the door, cut the airbags and seatbelt, and pulled the driver out and away from the flames.
Cabrera provided lifesaving care until fire rescue crews arrived, according to the release.
Firefighters extinguished the fire while paramedics stabilized the patient and transported them to the hospital as a trauma alert, MCFR said.
December 30, 2024: **Off-Duty Hero Saves Driver from Burning Vehicle** At 7:09 a.m., Marion County Fire Rescue units...
Posted by Marion County Fire Rescue on Monday, December 30, 2024
“The decisive actions of Critical Care Paramedic Cabrera exemplify courage and dedication, and undoubtedly saved a life today. Thank you for your selfless service!” the release concluded.
Officials did not disclose any further information on the condition of the driver.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, officials said.
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