HAINES CITY, Fla. — Haines City firefighters rescued a man whose car was trapped under a semi-truck early Wednesday morning, officials said in a media release.
The crash, which happened around 3:50 a.m., caused significant traffic delays at the intersection of U.S. 27 and State Route 544, the Haines City Fire Department said. Crews arriving on scene found the man's car had crashed into the rear of the semi-truck, causing the hood to become lodged underneath, trapping him inside.
The severity of the crash prompted support from more resources, including Haines City Engine 1 and Polk County Fire Rescue Tower 33, officials said. All three lanes of southbound U.S. 27 were reportedly shut down to help rescue the trapped driver.
A landing zone was set up for a medical helicopter, according to officials. The department said it took approximately 45 minutes to free the man before he was sent to a regional hospital for further treatment.
Haines City firefighters rescue man trapped underneath semi-truck
“Our firefighters and rescue teams displayed extraordinary courage and precision in the early hours of this morning,” Fire Chief Drew Neubrand said. “In the face of a complex and dangerous situation, their quick actions and seamless coordination with our partners ensured that the patient received the critical care needed."
Fire officials said the Polk County Sheriff's Office is currently leading the investigation into the crash and traffic gradually returned to normal through Wednesday morning.
Footage of the rescue effort can be viewed below: