(Photos: Marion County Fire Rescue)
An off-duty paramedic turned hero Monday morning when he rescued a driver trapped in a burning car near Exit 341 on I-75 on December 30.
The crash happened at 7:09 a.m. when a sedan veered off the road, hit a tree, and erupted into flames. With the driver still inside, multiple 911 callers sounded the alarm.
Enter MCFR Critical Care Paramedic Stephen Cabrera, who was on his way to work. Cabrera didn’t hesitate. After a bystander smashed a window, he opened the door, cut the airbags and seatbelt, and pulled the driver to safety. Cabrera provided care until Marion Oaks Station #24 paramedics arrived to take over.
By the time Engine and Rescue #24 showed up at 7:17 a.m., the car was fully engulfed. Firefighters extinguished the flames, declaring the fire under control by 7:22 a.m. The driver was taken to a trauma hospital, and the Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.
Cabrera’s quick actions likely saved a life. Marion County Fire Rescue gave a nod to his bravery, calling it a shining example of what it means to serve—even off the clock.
