Witnesses save Nebraska sheriff’s deputy from fiery crash

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Multiple witnesses sprang into action on Monday to save a Scotts Bluff County sheriff’s deputy from a fiery crash, the Nebraska State Patrol says.

Deputy Josh Ruzicka had a medical incident about 7:20 a.m. Mountain time while driving his patrol vehicle on Nebraska Highway 71 south of the junction with U.S. Highway 26, according to a preliminary investigation.

The vehicle left the road and hit an embankment, causing it to catch fire.

The witnesses rushed to help Ruzicka, who was unconscious, and pulled him out of the vehicle.

First responders arrived and took him to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, where the patrol said he was alert and in good condition Monday night.

The bystanders are thought to have saved Ruzicka’s life.

We are SO thankful for all of the people who helped Deputy Ruzicka yesterday morning after his crash. Without all of you he wouldn’t be here today and you all are truly #Heroes!! On behalf of his family (both blood and blue) and his friends … Thank You!!! pic.twitter.com/ivwxQULOLH

— NSP Troop E (@NSP_TroopE) April 19, 2022

The patrol is investigating the crash.

“Our entire department is very grateful for the quick actions taken by the witnesses to remove Deputy Ruzicka from the vehicle,” Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said. “We would also like to thank the Scottsbluff Police Department, Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scotts Bluff Rural Fire Department, and Valley Ambulance for their assistance.”