Fire Rescue Lieutenant Who Nearly Lost Life Named Palm Harbor Firefighter Of Year

PALM HARBOR, FL — A Palm Harbor firefighter who nearly died after being struck by a car while responding to the scene of an accident has been named the Palm Harbor Firefighter of the Year.

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Lt. Ashley White was chosen Firefighter of the Year by fellow firefighters and Fire Chief Scott Sanford for her heroism.

White also received the Purple Heart, which is awarded to members who are critically injured in the line of duty.

At 3:19 a.m. on Sept. 22, Palm Harbor Pumper 67 and Squad 65 responded to a vehicle crash in the northbound lanes of U.S. 19 and Innisbrook Drive.

Almost immediately after arriving on the scene where there were no injuries and minor damage to the two vehicles involved, White was struck by a silver GMC Denali pickup truck traveling at a high speed.

Her fellow firefighters began live-saving efforts until ambulances arrived to take her and the GMC driver to the hospital where the driver of the GMC was pronounced dead.

White underwent two surgeries, one for extensive trauma to her left leg, and the following day she had surgery to repair her left arm. After just seven days, she was released from the hospital.

Since then, she has had a second surgery to her left leg and is recovering at home with her husband and young daughter, where she continues to improve with the help of physical therapy.

She said she is more determined than ever to walk again and get back on the job.

Sanford said the proper placement of the apparatus when it arrived on the scene of the initial crash and the lifesaving skills of fellow firefighters saved White’s life.

During Palm Harbor Fire Rescue's annual awards ceremony, Lt. Chris Zipeto, firefighter/ paramedic Luca Petrone, firefighter/ paramedic Bobby Krayer and firefighter/ paramedic Kyle Drozdowski were presented with the department's Distinguished Service Award.

See related stories:

• Chief Calls Palm Harbor Firefighter's Recovery 'A Miracle'
• Fund Set Up For Palm Harbor Fire Lieutenant Struck By Truck
• Firefighter Critical After Being Struck By Pickup At Crash Scene