Bystanders Pull Driver From Burning Car In Mapleton

MAPLETON, Utah — Three people helped save a driver after a car crashed and burst into flames in Mapleton, according to police.

Officials said three citizens broke the car’s window and pulled the driver out of the burning vehicle before emergency crews arrived Friday morning.

Mapleton Chief of Police John Jackson called their actions “heroic” and thanked them for putting themselves in harm’s way to help someone they didn’t know.

“We are impressed with their actions and appreciate their willingness to serve their fellow man,” Jackson said in a press release. “There are some really good people in this world.”

Police arrived at the Gas N Go convenience store near 50 North and 1600 West and found the vehicle completely engulfed in flames around 7 a.m. Friday.

Investigators said the 2015 Mercedes jumped a curb and hit a large power supply box that was located between two pine trees behind the store.

Fire crews were able to contain the fire to the trees and vehicle with little damage to the building. The vehicle was a total loss.

The crash knocked out power to the Gas N Go store but crews were working to restore power and allow the store to reopen for regular business.

Later Friday, police said the driver was booked into the Utah County Jail on suspicion of driving under the influence and driving on a suspended driver’s license.

Crews from Spanish Fork, Springville and Provo fire departments assisted in the incident.