Burnet, Texas — On July 10, a former rancher turned truck driver for Melton Truck Lines halted a burning Ford pickup on I‑20 west of Atlanta, Oklahoma, and was later honored as a TCA Highway Angel for his quick action.
Dee Leatherwood, a 68‑year‑old grandfather and newly licensed CDL‑A holder, was driving his first long‑haul route when smoke erupted from the rear of a pickup. He slammed on his brakes, pulled onto the shoulder, and saw flames licking the plastic cargo area. A child’s car seat sat inside, making the situation urgent. Leatherwood kept the fire contained until the fire department arrived, preventing injury to the driver and potential damage to the vehicle.
The incident took place just west of Atlanta, a busy stretch of I‑20 that sees thousands of trucks daily. Leatherwood’s calm response illustrates the importance of quick judgment on the road, especially for newer drivers who must balance speed, safety, and emergency response.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A holders, the event underscores the need for emergency preparedness training. Owner‑operators and fleet managers should review fire extinguisher placement and conduct regular safety drills. Trucking companies hiring new drivers can use this story to reinforce the value of on‑the‑spot decision‑making and the role of industry recognitions like the TCA Highway Angel program in building a culture of safety.
Industry Reaction
The Truckload Carriers Association celebrated Leatherwood’s heroism, noting that since its 1997 launch the Highway Angel program has honored nearly 1,500 truckers for courage on the road. EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, the program’s sponsors, applauded the incident as an example of why driver safety initiatives matter. Industry groups emphasize that such moments reinforce the need for ongoing safety education and peer support among OTR truck drivers.
Key Points
- Dee Leatherwood, a retired rancher, earned a TCA Highway Angel award after stopping a flaming pickup on I‑20 west of Atlanta.
- The incident occurred on July 10 and involved a Ford pickup with a child’s car seat inside.
- Leatherwood kept the fire low until the fire department arrived, preventing injury to the driver.
- Since 1997, the TCA Highway Angel program has recognized almost 1,500 truckers for courage and goodwill.
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