MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop F Headquarters - 2920 North Shamrock Road - Jefferson City, MO 65102


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Paul J. Reinsch
(573) 751-1000
April 29, 2010
100403

EMPHASIS: Trooper Saves Trapped Motorist


On April 28, 2010, at approximately 9:59 a.m., Troop F Communications received a call regarding an eastbound motorist on Interstate 70 in Cooper County travelling in a careless and imprudent manner. At approximately 10:00 a.m., a minivan pulling a camper struck a guardrail at the 112-mile marker.
Tpr. Donald L. Doza responded to the scene and observed the vehicle on fire with the driver pinned inside. The driver, and lone occupant, was later identified as Aaron E. Norder, 80, of Monroe, WI. In an attempt to free the driver, Tpr. Doza broke out the windshield and driver’s window. He was unable to pull the driver through the window. The vehicle was engulfed in flames and had several five gallon propane tanks inside the vehicle, which began to explode during the extrication of the driver. A firefighter, Mr. David Gehm, came to assist, and together, he and Tpr. Doza were able to free the driver. Tpr. Doza and Mr. Gehm received minor cuts and burns, but did not seek medical treatment. Mr. Norder was taken to University Missouri Hospital by Staff for Life.
Captain Dale A. Schmidt, commanding officer, Troop F Headquarters, Jefferson City, stated, “Tpr. Doza and Mr. Gehm risked their lives in order to save another. Their actions prevented a serious tragedy. They are examples of true public servants.”

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