ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has recognized truck driver Ashley Smith as a TCA Highway Angel for her quick response in aiding victims of a serious early morning accident in Arizona.
Smith, a resident of Cisco, Texas, is affiliated with Decker Truck Line based in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
Taking Swift Action
On June 7, around 2:15 a.m. in Kingman, Arizona along U.S. Hwy 93, Smith, working as a lease purchase operator, reached the crash site shortly after it occurred. A vehicle carrying two men was driving in the wrong direction when it collided head-on with another vehicle containing a man, a woman, and their three-year-old child. Remaining calm and professional, Smith positioned her truck safely before springing into action.
Calling for Help
“I exited the truck and called 911,” Smith recounted. “The silver car started igniting and subsequently set the other car on fire before anyone arrived.”
Putting Others First
Smith attempted to put out the flames and used her flashlight to warn oncoming drivers about the dangerous situation, putting herself in harm’s way as she directed traffic.
Facing Danger
“I wanted to prevent someone from colliding with the wrecked vehicles, and in the process, I nearly got hit by an inattentive semi,” she said. “I had to leap off the highway.”
A Quiet Hero
Tragically, all five individuals involved in the crash were confirmed dead at the scene. “Smith’s heroism went unnoticed; she did not report her actions to her company,” TCA stated. “It was only brought to light when law enforcement contacted Decker Truck Line for possible dashcam footage. Trooper Miller notably commended Smith for her readiness to help without seeking recognition.”
Humility in Action
“I was just doing what I hoped anyone would do,” Smith commented.
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