In an extraordinary display of courage and quick thinking, a Huntingdon man risked his own life to save a family trapped in their burning vehicle after a serious collision on the A14.
Lee Bates, a 39-year-old delivery driver, was on his usual route when he witnessed the terrifying multi-vehicle crash unfold before him. Without a second thought, he sprang into action as flames began to engulf one of the cars.
'The Flames Were Everywhere'
'I didn't have much choice, did I?' Bates modestly told the Mirror. 'You see something like that and you just act. The flames were everywhere, and all I could think about was getting those people out.'
According to eyewitness accounts, Bates used a hammer from his vehicle to smash the windows of the burning car, pulling two adults and a child to safety just moments before the vehicle became completely consumed by fire.
Emergency Services Praise Quick Actions
Cambridgeshire Police and emergency responders who attended the scene have praised Bates' heroic intervention. The family, though shaken and suffering minor injuries, are expected to make a full recovery thanks to his timely actions.
'This could have been an absolute tragedy,' said a spokesperson for the Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service. 'The swift actions of this member of the public undoubtedly saved lives today.'
The A14 was closed for several hours following the incident as investigators worked to determine the cause of the collision and clear the wreckage.
A Reluctant Hero Returns to Work
True to his humble nature, Bates reportedly returned to his delivery route after giving his statement to police, downplaying his extraordinary bravery as simply 'the right thing to do.'
His story has since sparked an outpouring of admiration from the Huntingdon community, with many calling for formal recognition of his life-saving actions.
