CITGO Employee Honored For Saving Driver From Burning Van On Tracks

LEMONT, IL —A CITGO employee was recently honored with a pair of Lifesaving Awards for rescuing a driver who was caught in a burning van that was stuck on railroad tracks. Jared Read, a maintenance journeyman, was working an evening shift when he sprung to action that early morning in late January.

Read saw the incident around 1:15 a.m., according to a news release from CITGO. After noticing the van had left the roadway, ended up on the tracks and caught fire, Read climbed a barbed wire fence to get to the van and broke a window to gain access to anyone inside.

An employee with Illinois Department of Transportation eventually got to the scene and helped Read get someone from inside the van.

On Feb. 26, the Lemont Police Department honored Read for his actions, with Chief Marc Maton commenting, "your quick thinking, ability to remain calm, and exceptional response to this undoubtedly severe incident saved the life of a citizen. You are hereby commended for a job well done."

CITGO Lemont Refinery also honored Read in their own ceremony on March 18.

For his part, Read said in a statement, “I was there at the right place and right time. I think it’s important to not be afraid and do your part.”