A VICTIM of an horrific road crash has visited the firefighters in Newton Abbot who helped save him.

The casualty, called Sam, has spent two months recovering from serious injuries and has undergone several operations following the collision on the A380 in April. 

Now making good progress, he popped in to thank the Newton Abbot crew in person. 

He was trapped in the passenger seat of a vehicle which collided with another large vehicle. 

Fire crews from Newton Abbot work alongside colleagues from Torquay and Middlemoor fire stations at the scene. 

Sam had been ‘significantly’ trapped in the passenger seat of the commercial vehicle with potentially life-threatening injuries. 

Wreckage of the vehicle in which Sam was trapped
Wreckage of the vehicle in which Sam was trapped (MDA NA fire station )

All three fire crews used hydraulic cutting and spreading equipment to free from the wreckage. 

A Newton Abbot fire station spokesman said: ‘Crews worked closely with the ambulance service to stabilise the casualty prior to us cutting parts of the vehicle away to release the individual’s legs.’

Firefighters used cutting equipment to release casualty
Firefighters used cutting equipment to release casualty (MDA NA fire station )

When Sam was free from the vehicle, he was taken to hospital by Devon Air Ambulance. 

The fire spokesman added: ‘We don’t normally report on incidents of this nature to avoid speculation, and out of respect for the individuals involved. 

‘However, the individual from the vehicle, Sam, visited us on station. 

‘He turned up with his partner and a trolley full of biscuits and cakes for the crew. 

‘Sam wished to pass on his thanks to everyone involved on that traumatic day. 

‘Following multiple surgeries, Sam is making a brilliant recovery. 

‘We wish you and your family all the best and thanks for visiting us.’