For Immediate Release

Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 978-971-8101
Email: john@jgpr.net

North Haven Fire Department Responds to Motor Vehicle Crash on Route 15

NORTH HAVEN — Chief Paul Januszewski reports that the North Haven Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle crash early this morning on Route 15.

Around 6:30 a.m., North Haven Fire was dispatched to Route 15 northbound, in the area of exit 63, on a report that a car had crashed into a tree and was on fire with people trapped inside. The department received multiple 911 calls on the incident.

Engine 1, Engine 4, Truck 1 and Rescue 1, along with Car 30 and Car 31 responded. Initial crews on scene found the car engulfed in flames, with both male occupants out of the vehicle.

Just prior to North Haven’s arrival, a volunteer firefighter from South Windsor was traveling on the south side of Route 15 and stopped when he saw a car on fire. The volunteer firefighter found one individual, the passenger, out of the vehicle with the driver trapped inside. He was able to utilize a tire jack to break the window and pull the driver out of the car to safety.

North Haven firefighters treated both occupants on scene and assisted with transporting the driver, who suffered serious injuries, to Yale New Haven Hospital. The passenger suffered minor injuries.

“We’re extremely grateful to the volunteer firefighter who stopped to assist with this serious car crash,” Chief Januszewski said. “His quick actions saved a person’s life. I commend his actions and the work by North Haven firefighters this morning.”

The crash is under investigation by the Connecticut State Police.

###