On February 2, 2005 at approximately 8:45 a.m. a single vehicle crashed into a recreational walkway-type bridge on Highway 17, Fleming Island.
The driver left the roadway, and took out approximately 60 feet of walkway during the crash. The semi truck was carrying a load of creosote fencing for a local project.
Driver of the vehicle received significant injuries and was transported to Shands Hospital Jax.
Extrication was made more difficult by the semi being wedged under the bridge, and the need for stabilization during extrication in muddy conditions.
Clay County Engine 22, T229, Rescue 77, SQ153, and Engine 19 (Town of OP) rapidly deployed extrication equipment and had the driver extricated via the passengers' door (under the bridge) within 30 minutes. Due to poor weather conditions, the patient was ground transported to Shands Hospital Jacksonville, where his condition remains critical.
Several Jacksonville firefighters returning from duty stopped and rendered aid during the extrication. Firefighters truely are "Brothers" even beyond county lines and timeclocks.
