Clay County, Mo. – On September 15, an off‑duty Kansas City Police Department detective and a Clay County sheriff’s deputy acted quickly to save a driver whose truck caught fire on Interstate 35 near Claycomo.
Quick response on the highway
Detective Findley had just finished his shift when he saw a truck engulfed in flames while traveling northbound on I‑35. At the same time, Deputy Chase Blatt was driving home when he noticed thick black smoke rising from the same spot.
“As I was coming around the curve on I‑35, I saw the black smoke coming up,” Blatt said. He pulled over and moved toward the vehicle, while Findley approached the cab.
Rescuing the driver
According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the driver was disoriented and experiencing a medical issue. Findley described the conditions: “It was hot when I got to the vehicle. I could see some flame coming from the engine compartment, and almost the entire cab looked like it was full of heavy black smoke.”
Working together, the two officers managed to pull the driver out of the burning truck and move him to a safe distance. “We pulled him back a couple more after we realized that flying fire debris was coming from the vehicle,” Blatt recalled.
Explosion and medical care
Moments after the rescue, the truck exploded, sending a plume of fire and smoke into the air. The swift actions of Findley and Blatt likely prevented a more serious outcome. The driver was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of burns to his legs.
“Without the intervention of Detective Findley and Deputy Blatt, it could have been much worse,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Instinct over training
Both officers noted that this type of rescue is not part of their regular training, but their instincts took over. “It’s more of an instinct that kicks in, and you just do what you have to do,” Findley explained.
Blatt added, “I’m glad we were able to get fire there and EMS there to help him out, make sure he got the medical attention he needed.”
Community impact
The incident underscores the dedication of local law‑enforcement officers who protect motorists on Missouri’s highways. Their willingness to act without hesitation reflects the values of service and responsibility that keep our communities safe.
A video released by the sheriff’s office shows the truck completely destroyed after the explosion, a stark reminder of how quickly a dangerous situation can turn fatal without prompt action.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
