MC Carrier LLC driver apprentice Gabriel Popa was named a TCA Highway Angel for his actions after the Feb. 28 collision near Rogerson, Idaho. His mentor and co-driver, Nahum Camacho, had been asleep in the sleeper berth when the crash occurred.

Early-Morning Crash on U.S. 93

Popa was traveling southbound on U.S. 93 around 4 a.m. when an impaired driver crossed into the truck’s path near a curve. Popa braked and attempted to avoid the approaching vehicle, but the two vehicles collided.

The impact badly damaged the truck and scattered debris and equipment throughout the cab. Popa noticed smoke and the smell of burning oil after the collision, adding to concerns about getting away from the wreckage quickly.

Camacho had been thrown from the sleeper berth during the crash and was disoriented. After getting out through his own door, Popa returned to the truck when he realized his mentor could not escape on his own.

Popa pulled Camacho from the wreckage and helped carry him to a nearby vehicle. With Camacho barefoot, without a shirt, and shivering in the early-morning cold, Popa also looked for a blanket while they waited for emergency responders.

Experience Before His Trucking Career

Although Popa was still an apprentice at the time, he had previous experience behind the wheel from his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He had driven Class B trucks while stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

When asked about returning to the damaged truck despite the danger and his own injuries, Popa said his focus was simply on getting his co-driver out safely.

The TCA Highway Angel program has recognized professional truck drivers for acts of kindness, courtesy, and courage on the job since 1997. Nearly 1,500 drivers have received the recognition since the program began.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 24, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Gabriel Popa, TCA, Truckers News

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