When the unexpected happens on the road, professional drivers often find themselves in the position to step up. That’s exactly what happened when Heather Barkey of Volant, Pennsylvania, a driver for Nussbaum Transportation based in Hudson, Illinois, stopped to help a fellow trucker who was trapped after a rollover.
The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has now recognized Barkey as its newest Highway Angel, honoring her courage and quick thinking.
A Night That Changed Everything
The incident happened late in the evening on June 18 near Mount Vernon, Illinois, as Barkey was heading toward her company’s terminal.
“I stopped on the side of the road because no one had stopped,” Barkey said. “The truck was smoking when I got there, and you could smell fuel.”
She immediately put her hazards on to avoid creating more danger, then called 911.
Breaking Through to Save a Life
“The driver was stuck in there,” Barkey said. “I happened to have a mag light flashlight in my hand, so I beat the window until I got it busted open, and then he was able to kick it out. Of course, I called 911 during all of this, and I stayed on the scene until the officer told me I was good to go. I’m just glad he was okay.”
Her quick actions helped prevent a bad situation from escalating, demonstrating the importance of staying calm under pressure and being willing to take action.
Recognized as a Highway Angel
The TCA Highway Angel program highlights professional drivers who go above and beyond to help others in critical situations. Barkey’s story is now part of a long tradition of truckers proving that the industry is about much more than moving freight — it’s about protecting lives.
For more stories of truckers recognized as Highway Angels, visit the Truckload Carriers Association’s official website.
Source: The Trucker
Image Source: Heather Barkey (Source: TCA)
