OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) lieutenant is being hailed as a hero after his quick thinking and courageous actions saved a young woman’s life during a fiery head-on collision.
The wreck happened on Dec. 11, 2024, at 10:59 a.m. at the intersection of Northwest 84th Court and North U.S. Highway 27 in Ocala. According to MCFR, people who called 911 said both cars were on fire and the people inside were trapped.
One of the people involved was MCFR’s Lieutenant Cody Murphy, but dispatchers didn’t know this. While he was driving home from running errands in his own car, he got into the crash. Even though he was hurt, he got out of his vehicle and quickly focused on helping the other driver, who was stuck in her burning car.
Using his training as a firefighter and paramedic, Murphy quickly rescued the young woman from the wreckage, getting her to safety just before the fire could harm her. He then checked her injuries and gave emergency care to help stabilize her condition.
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MCFR Firefighter Paramedics reached the location at 11:08 a.m., issued a “Trauma Alert,” and took the woman to a local trauma hospital. Firefighters put out the vehicle fires while Murphy was assessed and later received care for his injuries.
“The selflessness and decisive actions of LT Cody Murphy in moments of extreme peril undoubtedly saved a life,” said MCFR in a Facebook post. “His bravery and commitment to serving others are a testament to the caliber of individuals who make up Marion County Fire Rescue.”