Crash Victims Rescued From Burning Vehicles in Route 1 Mishap

A motorist who witnessed a fiery crash near Hoopeston Tuesday took heroic action by pulling two occupants away from the burning vehicles.

Chief Vermilion County Sheriff's Investigator Rodney Kaag says the witness "saved some lives."

A semi tractor-trailer and a farm tractor were involved in the wreck on Illinois Route 1, about two miles south of Hoopeston.

Kagg reported the Illinois State Police are investigating the crash. He says both units burst into flames. The witness rescued two occupants from the semi. The driver was the only person on the farm tractor.

The un-identified rescuer was also hurt. He suffered burns while getting those involved away from the flames. Names of those involved and the extent of their injuries was not immediately available. The crash also damaged a bridge. Traffic was still being detoured while emergency crews and the Illinois Department of Transportation crews cleaned up the scene.

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