La Cygne police chief commends neighbors, first responders for heroic action

Journal staff report

LA CYGNE – In a rescue deemed “heroic” by La Cygne Police Chief Zachary Mathies, people living on the 600 block of North Broadway came out of the homes to rescue a driver who car was on fire after striking a utility pole. The accident occurred just before 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6.

After being dispatched to the scene of the accident, police officers saw that neighbors were working to remove the driver to safety. Officers used their fire extinguishers to put out the blaze and then turned to help the driver, who was alone in the vehicle, until other emergency personnel arrived, according to Mathies.

He said the driver sustained at most minor injuries from the wreck.

“The incident serves a a powerful reminder of the strength of our community, and how we come together in a crisis,” Mathies said in a written statement. “The La Cygne Police Department and the city of La Cygne commends the citizens involved for their bravery and selflessness in helping a neighbor in need.”

He went on to thank public works employees who also serve on the city fire department, the city fire department, AMR ambulance service and the Linn County dispatch that works behind the scenes to coordinate emergency services.