FCA Chief Designer Used His Wrangler To Save Man From Crash
Ralph Gilles was the first person on the scene of a horrific crash, where he used his Jeep Wrangler to push a vehicle away from the rising flames.
The Head of Design for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Ralph Giles, is being lauded a hero after his admirable actions last week. He and his wife, Doris Gilles, came across a fiery crash on a road in suburban Detroit in the evening. The couple was just returning from an event last Sunday when they found themselves witnessing the aftermath of a tragic collision.
Acting fast, as he was the first on the scene, Ralph used his Jeep Wrangler to push a burning Ford Edge with two trapped occupants away from a crashed Ford Fiesta. Meanwhile, his wife rushed to call 911.
Ralph Gilles told an Oxford Leader reporter:
"“I still have no idea where that (thought) came from. The only thing I can remember thinking (is) I’ve got a Jeep, it’s got a bumper on it, I think I can do this. All I could think about were the two people still inside the other car.”"
Unfortunately, the 57-year old female passenger in the Ford Fiesta passed away from her injuries. The driver, her husband, was taken to a nearby hospital and was said to be in stable condition. Alcohol is reported to be a factor in this crash. The driver of the Edge gave a blood draw and also admitted to drinking and driving, according to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
The driver of the Ford Edge apparently lost control while driving on the street, which was blanketed in snow, and hit the Fiesta head-on.
This caused the Fiesta to become disabled with its occupants entrapped while blocking the two-lane road. A Buick LeSabre that was driving on the same road ended up hitting the Fiesta and pushing it into the Edge, causing engine fluids to combust into large flames.
Whoa...haven’t checked my Twitter in a bit. Just saw all the kind words about last weekends sad events. I am no hero just was there at a critical time. Thank you all for the kind words. Respect to all the true daily heroes our first responders!
— Ralph Gilles (@RalphGilles) February 25, 2018
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Fox News reports that Addision Fire Chief Jerry Morawski shows much praise for Ralph Gilles’ actions. “That guy did a pretty heroic thing. I think the guy did a great job,” he added. “[If he hadn’t taken action] it could have been worse.”
A statement by Fiat Chrysler issued to Fox News explained how proud the company was that its employees lead by a positive example both inside and outside of work. We can all agree that the world would be a much better place if people took even one minute out of the day to help someone in need or even make them smile. Let’s take Ralph Gilles’ actions and maybe use that as a resolution for this year to try to do more good.
Next: Motorcyclist Sues General Motors Over Crash With Self-Driving Car
Check out Ralph Gilles’ Instagram post below, where he briefly touches upon the fatal crash and urges drivers to keep their “heads up all the time.”
Although he does not want to be deemed a hero, what are your thoughts on Ralph Gilles’ quick response to the tragedy that occurred? We definitely commend his actions and humbleness, as he gives the credit to the first responders. Let us know your opinions in the comments below.