For further information please contact: Sergeant Paul J. Reinsch
(573) 751-1000
October 22, 2007
F071003

EMPHASIS: Troop F's "I'm Saving Lives. Help Wanted." Safety Campaign


The Missouri State Highway Patrol invites members of the Troop F media to attend a news conference at 9:00 a.m., on October 25, 2007, at the Troop F Headquarters, 2920 N. Shamrock Road, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Colonel James F. Keathley will be present at the news conference to announce a new traffic safety campaign entitled, “I’m Saving Lives. Help Wanted”. This campaign is scheduled to kickoff this month and run through December 2008. This new campaign will focus on the importance of paying attention when driving, wearing a seat belt, obeying traffic laws, and the importance of being a sober driver. The Patrol believes through the combined efforts of law enforcement and the motoring public, the number of crashes and fatalities occurring on Missouri’s roadways can continue to be reduced.
In addition, two central Missouri residents will be honored as “Honorary Troopers” for their actions at two separate traffic crashes that occurred recently in the Troop F area. Honored will be Robert F. Zeller, of Pilot Grove, Missouri, and Callaway County Deputy Matt Huyser.
On August 20, 2007, Mr. Zeller came upon a traffic crash on Missouri Highway 135, approximately one mile north of Route A in Cooper County. Mr. Zeller was able to remove Jennifer Susan Peterson, Pilot Grove, Missouri, and her two daughters from the burning vehicle. Mr. Zeller’s heroic actions and disregard for his own safety saved the lives of three individuals.
On September 2, 2007, Callaway County Deputy Matt Huyser was off duty and came upon a traffic crash on the westbound exit ramp of Interstate 70 at Route M in Callaway County. A truck, driven by Joshua McGrath, ran off the right side of the ramp and struck a parked tractor-trailer unit. The truck and rear portion of the trailer became fully engulfed in flames. Deputy Huyser, without hesitation, ran to the truck and pulled Mr. McGrath out of the driver’s window. Deputy Huyser’s heroic actions and quick thinking saved Mr. McGrath’s life.
The public and members of the media are invited to attend this news conference.



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