Rescue At Closing Time

It's impossible to know when the opportunity to help save a life might present itself. For Adam and John, employees at Crete Ace Hardware in Crete, Illinois, their opportunity came at closing time on a cold winter evening in February.

Around 7 p.m., Adam and John were ready to close the store for the day. From the front door, they could see the headlights of a truck drive off a nearby highway and onto an icy, frozen pond. A moment later, the ice cracked, and the truck started sinking into the cold water. They called 911 and sprang into action, rushing to the scene to see if they could help.

"As soon as we walked out of that door and we heard that crunch, we knew there was something wrong," said Adam. "Before I could even think, my instincts just kicked in and I started running out there."

Working to become a firefighter and EMT at the Crete Fire Department, Adam relied on his training to help the man that was trapped in the cab of the sinking truck. He rushed out onto the ice and used the corner of his walkie-talkie to break the glass so he could reach inside to free the man. Together with John, they were able to pull the man to safety before the truck sank. The paramedics arrived shortly after.

"Adam and John, they're both rockstars. Always willing to help," said Rob Lagestee, Crete Ace Hardware Owner and Manager. "I guarantee there wasn't a thought in their mind but to do something and take care of that situation."

"People say we're heroes," said John. "But I would want someone to do the same for me if I was in that situation."