On a July morning in 2020, a dramatic rescue unfolded on Vancouver Island after a pickup slammed into the back of a logging truck.
Carl Wilson was navigating his fully-loaded truck northbound on the Trans-Canada Highway, close to the Nanaimo Airport, when that startling collision occurred just after crossing Cedar Road.
Wilson experienced a significant impact from the rear, pulled over, and discovered the pickup truck lodged between his cargo of logs.
Dramatic crash on Trans Canada hwy south of #Nanaimo this am saw a pick-up slam into the back of a logging truck. Fire officials say the logging truck driver used his fire extinguisher and pulled driver of pick-up to safety saving his life. @CHEK_News pic.twitter.com/bPa85cHz2H
— Kendall Hanson (@Kendall_Hanson) July 22, 2020
The situation quickly escalated as flames began to emerge from under the hood of the pickup.
Wilson and two passersby extracted the driver from the vehicle and then grabbed a fire extinguisher to combat the flames. Despite his efforts, the fire intensified.
North Oyster Fire Rescue, a local firefighting team, arrived shortly after to tackle the blaze, which had fully engulfed the pickup and threatened to ignite the logs on Wilson’s truck.
CTV News reported that the team’s captain, Kristopher Hill, lauded Wilson’s heroic actions, acknowledging that his prompt response undoubtedly saved the pickup driver’s life.
The injured man, suffering from serious injuries, was swiftly taken to Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, where it was revealed he had fallen asleep at the wheel.
The incident caused considerable disruption, with the cedar logs catching fire and requiring extensive water to extinguish the flames.
This event underscores the importance of alertness on the road and showcases the extraordinary measures individuals can take to aid others in moments of crisis.
