ORLANDO — Illinois truck driver Gerald "Andy" Wright, who saved the lives of four motorists trapped in a burning SUV, is the recipient of the 37th Goodyear Highway Hero Award, which was announced during a news conference the 2022 Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC).
The program, which debuted in 1983, honors professional truck drivers who act selflessly for the good of others on the highways across North America.
Wright, of Jacksonville, Ill., was driving on Illinois Route 3 when he encountered a vehicle on fire following an accident. With just a fire extinguisher and load bar, Wright doused the fire as best he could until the extinguisher ran out. He then broke the vehicle's sunroof and helped pull the occupants out of the vehicle to safety.
By the time all riders had been removed, the car was engulfed in fire, according to Goodyear.
"From the moment I saw the flames, all I could think about was what I could do to help those inside the car get to safety," Wright said. "I'm honored to be given this award from Goodyear, and at the end of the day I feel very fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time to help those in need."
Wright received a check for $1,000 and other custom prizes from Goodyear.
"There is no question that Andy's actions directly saved the lives of those who were in severe danger," Gary Schroeder, executive director, Cooper Commercial at Goodyear, said. "Andy fully embodies what it means to be a hero, and today we are proud to add him to our list of courageous Goodyear Highway Hero Award winners."
Wright was chosen by a panel of independent industry judges from dozens of entrants.
Two other finalists also were honored:
- Jami Meyers was driving on an interstate when she noticed a car in front of her swerve and hit a barrier. She stopped her vehicle to investigate and noticed the other vehicle was slowly moving and the driver was on the ground in front of the car. Meyers put the car in reverse to ensure the man could be removed from the car's path and then covered the man with a coat to stay warm until emergency personnel arrived.
- Phillip Hurte was driving through Lubbock, Texas, when he saw an SUV roll over. He stopped quickly and pulled over to see if he could help. When Hurte approached the vehicle, he saw two adults and a young child inside, then helped each family member exit safely.
As finalists, Meyers and Hurte also will receive monetary prizes from Goodyear.
For more information about the award, visit goodyeartrucktires.com.