St. Paul, Minnesota – Kadir Tolla, a 35-year-old resident of St. Paul, Minnesota, was driving along Interstate 94 when he noticed an SUV engulfed in flames with a passenger trapped inside. Tolla, who runs a senior activity center with his wife, made a split-second decision to stop and help, despite the danger.
After pulling over, Tolla was joined by about 10 other motorists who also rushed to aid the trapped passenger. The fire had broken out around 6:30 p.m., creating a sense of urgency among those who stopped to assist.
It was a harrowing experience for Tolla and the others who risked their lives to save a stranger from the burning vehicle. Lacie Kramer, one of the Good Samaritans who sprang into action, described the adrenaline-fueled moment as a blur of chaos and bravery.
Using his vehicle’s video recording features, Tolla captured the chaotic scene as rescuers desperately tried to open the SUV’s doors to reach the passenger inside. Despite the flames posing a danger to everyone involved, the group persisted in their efforts to rescue the trapped individual.
Ultimately, a Minnesota Department of Transportation worker arrived on the scene and successfully smashed the window, enabling the group to pull the driver to safety. The driver, identified as Samuel Orbovich, a 71-year-old St. Paul resident, was later taken to Regions Hospital for evaluation, though no injuries were reported.
Orbovich, a grateful survivor of the ordeal, expressed his appreciation for the selfless actions of the individuals who risked their safety to rescue him. Reflecting on the incident, he emphasized the importance of looking out for one another in times of crisis and commended the bravery of those who came to his aid.
Tolla, echoing Orbovich’s sentiments, highlighted the inherent kindness and willingness of strangers to help each other when faced with adversity. The incident serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and compassion that can be found in unexpected moments of need.