Greensboro, North Carolina — On February 24, 2023, a routine 7 p.m. run through Virginia’s Rocky Gap turned into a life‑saving mission when Lance Kent, a truck driver for Murrows Transfer Inc., pulled over to rescue a fellow driver from a blazing rig. The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has named Kent a Highway Angel for his quick thinking and bravery.
The incident underscores why safety remains the backbone of the trucking industry. When Kent spotted smoke in the distance, he didn’t hesitate. He approached the scene, found a semi‑trailer engulfed in flames, and saw the driver—who had managed to escape the vehicle—huddled outside, wrapped in his own clothing. Kent’s actions—providing a blanket from his truck, staying with the injured driver until emergency crews arrived—prevented a potential tragedy and highlighted the importance of roadside assistance among drivers.
Murrows Transfer Inc., headquartered in Greensboro, has long promoted a culture of mutual aid among its drivers. Kent’s quick response not only saved a life but also earned him recognition from the TCA, an organization that annually honors drivers who go above and beyond for their peers. The award, known as the Highway Angel, celebrates acts of courage that reinforce the sense of community on the road.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A holders and owner‑operators, Kent’s story is a reminder that preparedness can mean the difference between life and death. Drivers should keep fire extinguishers, blankets, and first‑aid kits in their rigs, and practice emergency procedures. Fleet managers are encouraged to conduct regular safety briefings and ensure that all drivers understand how to respond to vehicle fires. Owner‑operators, who often drive alone, can benefit from sharing their routes and emergency contacts with their carriers to improve response times.
Trucking companies hiring new talent can use this incident as a case study in their training programs, reinforcing the importance of quick decision‑making and peer assistance. OTR truck drivers, in particular, face higher risks on long hauls, making roadside safety a critical component of their daily routine. FMCSA regulations already mandate certain safety equipment, but Kent’s actions demonstrate the added value of going beyond the minimum requirements.
Industry Reaction
The TCA praised Kent for his “selfless courage” and highlighted the award as part of its broader initiative to promote safety and camaraderie among carriers. Murrows Transfer Inc. spokesperson Sara Collins noted that “Kent’s heroism reflects the values we instill in every driver.” Across the industry, carriers are revisiting their roadside assistance protocols, with many announcing plans to provide additional training on fire response and rescue techniques.
Key Points
- Lance Kent, driver for Murrows Transfer Inc., rescued a fellow driver from a blazing rig on February 24, 2023.
- Kent received the TCA’s Highway Angel award for his quick and selfless response.
- The incident took place near Virginia’s Rocky Gap, a rural mountain town known for its scenic routes.
- Drivers are encouraged to maintain fire extinguishers, blankets, and first‑aid kits, and to practice emergency procedures.
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