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Deputy, passersby save Ala. officer from burning car

Officer Blake McGee was critically injured, trapped after his vehicle collided with a logging truck and burst into flames

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Officer Blake McGee was critically injured after his vehicle collided with a logging truck and burst into flames. Passersby, including a sheriff’s deputy, got him out of the vehicle.

Photo/Sylacauga Police Department

Carol Robinson
Alabama Media Group

SYLACAUGA, Ala. — A critically-injured Sylacauga police officer was pulled from his burning cruiser in a Thursday-night crash.

The accident happened at 6:19 p.m. Thursday between Officer Blake McGee and a logging truck on Highway 21 near Gristmill Road in Talladega County, said Sylacauga Police Chief Kelley Johnson. Upon impact, the officer’s vehicle caught fire.

Because of his extensive injuries, Johnson said, McGhee could not get out. Four passersby – including Talladega County sheriff’s Deputy Chris Rogers – stopped and pulled McGee out through the vehicle’s window. Johnson said without their swift actions, “circumstances could have ended very differently.”

Despite being critically injured, the chief said, McGhee’s remained responsive throughout the ordeal. Because of poor weather conditions, he was unable to be flown from the scene but ultimately was transported to UAB Hospital’s Trauma Center. He is in stable condition and faces multiple surgeries.

“Thoughts and prayers are appreciated for Blake and his family as he faces a difficult recovery ahead,’’ Johnson said.

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