Toby Ames saved Sarah M. Elrod from burning, Mitchellville, Iowa, July 18, 2008. Elrod, 21, was unconscious inside her automobile following its collision with a cargo truck. Flames erupted at the back of the car, which, severely damaged, remained in contact with the front of the truck. Driving on the same highway, Ames, 38, landscaper, witnessed the crash and stopped at the scene. Despite flames issuing from the rear half of the car, he opened its driver’s door, reached inside, and unfastened Elrod’s safety belt. He then lifted her from the vehicle and carried her to safety. Flames grew to engulf the car and spread to the truck. Elrod required extensive hospitalization and rehabilitation for severe injuries.
81435 – 9284
81435-9284