Title: Tow Truck Driver Hospitalized After Collision with State Patrol Car
A tow truck driver remains in serious condition following a harrowing incident near Wolcott, Colorado. Alex Salgado, 22, was hospitalized with multiple injuries, including four broken bones in one leg, a broken pelvis, and internal injuries after being caught between his flatbed tow truck and a Colorado State Patrol vehicle. The incident occurred Sunday evening when an out-of-control Jeep plowed into the patrol car, which then collided with Salgado.
The chain of events began when a Ford F-250 became stuck in the snow while Salgado was responding to assist another tow truck crew. The driver of the Ford is now facing DUI charges. Fortunately, the trooper managed to escape injury, but Salgado was not so lucky, highlighting a growing concern for the safety of first responders and road workers.
Salgado’s mother, Maria Bahr, expressed her frustration, noting that her son is well-liked among law enforcement and has faced dangerous situations before. "They don’t care, they don’t think about it… the people, they’re working," she said. Her sentiments echo the experiences of many in the industry, as distracted driving continues to rise, contributing to an alarming increase in accidents involving first responders.
Charlie Stubblefield, owner of Mountain Recovery, emphasized the need for greater awareness on the roads. He noted a tragic rise in fatalities among first responders this year. Various factors are at play, including speed, impaired driving, and evolving vehicle technologies that may confuse drivers.
As Salgado recovers, his mother urges drivers to exercise caution on the roads. "Please drive slow. Please," she pleaded, hoping for a safer environment for all those who serve on the front lines.