NY volunteer firefighter seriously injured in hit-and-run incident

A Rapids Volunteer Fire Company firefighter was transported to the hospital after being hit by a car while directing traffic

August 20, 2019 11:16 AM

The injured firefighter is a volunteer with the Rapids Fire Company in Lockport, N.Y.

LOCKPORT, N.Y. — A volunteer firefighter who was directing traffic at an accident scene Sunday at Tonawanda Creek and Minnick roads in Lockport was seriously injured after being struck by a hit-and-run vehicle, according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies are seeking assistance in locating the vehicle, the Sheriff’s Office said.

The firefighter, from Rapids Volunteer Fire Company, was directing traffic about 9:40 p.m. Sunday on Tonawanda Creek Road following a motor vehicle accident, the Sheriff’s Office said. He was wearing a reflective vest and had a lighted wand, as well a blue light that illuminated the side of his truck.

The vehicle that struck the firefighter is described as a newer white Dodge 1500 pickup with black pin-striping about 1½ inches wide on the side, running from the front to the rear of the vehicle just above the door handle. The pickup, which was headed west on Tonawanda Creek Road, slowed but did not stop, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

The truck may have front end or side damage.

The firefighter was taken to Erie County Medical Center.

https://www.facebook.com/RapidsVFC/photos/a.2019899878297120/2459794000974370/?type=3&theater

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