Hero Fire Capt. Leads Highway Rescue After Medical Helicopter Crash
A medical helicopter, an Airbus EC-130 T2 operated by REACH Air Medical, crashed onto a California highway. The incident left a paramedic trapped under the wreckage, with the pilot, nurse, and paramedic all in critical condition. Sacramento Fire Capt. Peter Vandersluis, who had no prior experience leading civilians in such a situation, stepped in to direct the rescue effort.
The helicopter, carrying a paramedic, a nurse, and a pilot, crashed in the middle of the highway. Miraculously, no one on the road was injured. Capt. Vandersluis, using his training and experience, took charge. He rallied around 15 drivers to help lift the helicopter off the trapped paramedic. In an incredible display of teamwork, they successfully lifted the aircraft in just 30 seconds, rescuing the paramedic within a minute.
REACH Air Medical is investigating the situation and the condition of its crew. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are also investigating the crash. The cause of the accident remains unknown, as search results do not provide information about who was operating or maintaining the helicopter before the incident.
The swift actions of Capt. Vandersluis and the impromptu team of drivers averted a tragedy. The paramedic was rescued quickly and safely. The investigation into the cause of the crash continues, with REACH Air Medical, NTSB, and FAA all involved.
