AN off-duty CFA member helped save a man’s life after a single-vehicle accident near Branxholme early yesterday morning.
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A 23-year-old Cowes man lost control of his car on a Henty Highway bend about 1.45am.
The car left the road and struck a tree, trapping the driver.
A police media spokeswoman said a fire ignited in the car’s engine bay.
According to the spokeswoman, the off- duty CFA member came across the crash before the fire had a chance to spread.
“He shovelled dirt on to the flames to try and keep the fire from the injured man while ringing for help,” she said.
“Several Hamilton police members attended the scene shortly after, using fire extinguishers to keep the fire under control.
“CFA crews quickly attended the scene and put out the fire before the man was freed from the vehicle. The man is lucky to be alive.”
The spokeswoman said the identity of the accident hero was not known.
An Ambulance Victoria spokesman said the crash victim was flown to Melbourne’s The Alfred hospital with non- life-threatening injuries.
Leading Senior Constable Dave Togon, from Branxholme police, said investigations into the cause of the accident were ongoing.
“Any witnesses who may know something are urged to contact myself at the Branxholme police station (5578 6222),” Leading Senior Constable Togon said.
jwoolley@fairfaxmedia.com.au
