In a remarkable display of courage, Tanner Ater, a tow truck driver from Neenah, Wisconsin, is celebrated as a hero after rescuing a couple from a fiery car crash on a frigid winter night. The incident occurred shortly after 9:30 p.m. when Ater heard a loud crash outside his apartment and sprang into action.
Ater rushed outside to find a car overturned on its side, with flames beginning to engulf the vehicle. Inside, a woman was screaming for help. Without a moment’s hesitation, Ater called 911 and grabbed a fire extinguisher from his apartment.
He immediately began to douse the flames, buying precious time until emergency services could arrive. The vehicle had veered off Gillingham Road, struck a fire hydrant, descended an embankment, and collided with a tree before overturning.
The impact caused the engine compartment to catch fire, posing an immediate threat to the occupants trapped inside. Despite the intense heat and growing flames, Ater did not hesitate to act. Climbing on top of the overturned car, Ater was joined by a Winnebago County sheriff’s deputy who had arrived on the scene.
Together, they managed to pull the woman out of the wreckage. However, her husband remained trapped inside the burning vehicle. Demonstrating unwavering determination, Ater re-entered the danger zone and successfully rescued the man, dragging him to safety just as the flames intensified.
Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Ater later said, “If I hadn’t acted, I don’t think the husband would have made it. I think he would have died.” His quick thinking and selfless actions undoubtedly saved the couple’s lives. Neenah police praised Ater as a “heroic citizen” and expressed deep gratitude for his courageous response.
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The couple was transported to a local hospital, where the woman was treated and released, while her husband remained hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Both have since expressed their profound thanks to Ater for his life-saving actions, recognizing the critical role he played in their rescue.
The community has rallied around Ater, applauding his heroism and quick response. Residents and officials have commended him for his bravery and the example he has set. Ater’s actions have inspired others, demonstrating the importance of helping those in need and the impact one individual can have in a critical situation.
The Neenah Police Department has also recognized the efforts of the first responders who assisted in the rescue, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and preparedness in emergency situations. The incident serves as a reminder of the everyday heroes among us who step up in times of crisis.
Ater hopes his story will encourage others to act when they see someone in danger. His heroic actions stand as a testament to the power of community and the difference one person can make.
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