Three people, including a student in a wheelchair, rescued from a New Jersey school bus fire by bystanders.
On Tuesday morning, a dramatic incident unfolded in Berlin, Camden County, New Jersey, as a school bus caught fire during rush hour, necessitating a swift rescue of three individuals on board. The alarming event took place around 8 a.m., when flames erupted near the left front wheel of the bus, which was carrying a driver, an adult passenger, and a student in a wheelchair.
The emergency response was accelerated by the timely actions of bystanders, including a tow truck driver identified as Dave Gilfillan. Observing the unfolding peril, Gilfillan utilized a fire extinguisher from his vehicle to suppress the flames at the front of the bus, thereby helping to mitigate the intensity of the fire. His quick response was pivotal in ensuring the safety of the occupants until more extensive help arrived.
In addition to Gilfillan’s efforts, a volunteer firefighter and local police officers quickly responded on the scene. Their coordination and promptness played an essential role in safely evacuating the individuals from the bus as thick smoke billowed from both the engine compartment and the rear of the vehicle. Firefighters who arrived shortly thereafter worked diligently to extinguish the remaining flames, ensuring that the situation was fully under control.
Berlin Police Department Lieutenant Joshua Smith expressed gratitude for the community’s quick response, noting that the incident showcased the benevolence that often goes unnoticed amid challenging times. The firefighting efforts were critical in averting what could have been a tragedy, highlighting the importance of prompt community action in emergency situations.
After the fire was extinguished, the Camden County Highway Department was tasked with addressing the spill created by the bus fluids. A sand truck was dispatched to clean up the significant fluid leakage, although the connection between the leakage and the fire remains unclear. Authorities are conducting an ongoing investigation to determine the precise cause of the blaze.
As the investigation unfolds, this incident serves as a reminder of the vigilance required during daily activities and the potential dangers that can arise unexpectedly. The heroic actions of both emergency responders and bystanders underscore community spirit and readiness to act in the face of crisis.
