On Monday at about 10:41 a.m., emergency responders in East Putnam were dispatched to a serious leg injury at the Valvoline and car‑wash facility located at 16 Providence Pike. A worker was struck and run over by a piece of heavy machinery operating on the premises.
Rapid volunteer response saves a life
Members of the East Putnam Fire Department arrived quickly, finding the victim immobilized and bleeding heavily. An off‑duty state trooper who was nearby applied two tourniquets, a critical step that helped control the bleeding before the arrival of advanced medical personnel.
Air evacuation to regional trauma center
Because of the severity of the injuries, a medical helicopter was called to transport the patient to UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, a designated Level I trauma center. The victim was taken there for definitive care and is listed as having serious injuries.
Community gratitude for first‑responders
Local residents expressed gratitude for the swift actions of the fire volunteers and the trooper, noting that the quick application of tourniquets likely prevented a worse outcome. The incident underscores the importance of well‑trained volunteer fire departments in rural communities and the value of cooperation between local emergency services and state law‑enforcement personnel.
Safety reminder for industrial workplaces
While the investigation into the exact cause of the accident is ongoing, officials reminded businesses that proper safety protocols, regular equipment maintenance, and thorough employee training are essential to prevent similar tragedies. The East Putnam Fire Department encourages all local employers to review their safety plans and ensure that workers have immediate access to first‑aid supplies.
Authorities will continue to monitor the victim’s condition and will release further updates as they become available. The community remains hopeful for a full recovery and thanks the emergency teams for their professionalism and dedication.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
