Multiple police officers and citizens are being recognized for their life-saving actions after a vehicle caught fire and exploded in Tilbury.
According to a report for the Chatham-Kent Police Services Board, officers received a call about a possible vehicle explosion on Ella Street at around 5:26 p.m. on December 1, 2022, and that a man was also on fire.
Area residents Roger Beaule and Peter Laliberte saw the incident taking place and immediately jumped into action by wrapping the man in a blanket to extinguish the flames.
Constables Ryan Federman and Trevor Biskey arrived at the scene before firefighters and EMS and assisted in extinguishing the remaining sparks that had spread throughout the man’s clothing.
At this time, the officers heard a hissing noise coming from the nearby engulfed vehicle and learned that there was a propane tank inside. They quickly pulled the man to safety minutes before the vehicle exploded.
Another local resident, Lori Beaule, was credited for quickly making the initial call to 911, which was received by Emergency Communication Operator (ECO) Chelsea Charron. Charron remained on the line to ask questions and also took over the call for EMS dispatch when they experienced technical difficulties during the call.
The victim was rushed to hospital before being transferred to Toronto for treatment. Authorities said the man’s pants and a layer of skin on his legs had been completely burnt off. He also suffered second and third-degree burns to his hands and torso.
Constable Danica Quenneville attended the hospital and remained with the victim until he was transferred. As well, Constables Federman and Biskey remained with the man’s family to provide support, along with Laliberte and Mr. Beaule, who met with the family as well to offer support.
As a result of their actions, Constables Federman and Biskey will both receive a Chief’s Commendation, while Laliberte and Mr. Beaule will receive a Police Board Citation. As well, Ms. Beaule and Constable Quenneville will be presented with Deputy Chief Letters of Recommendation.
The acknowledgements will be presented during the next police board meeting on March 8 at police headquarters.