Zhang Jian, a 24-year-old man from Shandong province, stopped his ride-hailing car while passing through the Baotashan Tunnel to help an injured driver trapped in a burning truck, authorities said [1].
The incident occurred after a rear-end collision between two vehicles inside the 10-kilometer tunnel, which left one truck ablaze and two drivers injured near the scene [1]. Zhang and his passenger quickly carried the injured man into their car to escape the fire [1].
However, the injured man’s leg could not fit completely inside the vehicle. Zhang drove approximately 10 minutes with the front door open to accommodate the leg while dense smoke entered the car [1]. To protect themselves, they poured drinking water on their bodies during the journey [1].
During the rescue, Zhang called his mother and told her he “might not return” because of the dangerous situation [1].
Zhang was returning home from Shanxi province when he encountered the crash and took immediate action to save the injured driver’s life [1]. The cooperation between Zhang and his passenger was key to getting the man out of harm’s way [1].
Emergency responders arrived after Zhang’s drive, though details of the injured man’s condition have not been released [1]. The Baotashan Tunnel, spanning 10 kilometers, remains a vital but challenging route where drivers need to act quickly in emergencies.
Authorities have not reported any arrests or charges related to the collision that caused the fire. Zhang’s swift response and courage drew praise from local residents and social media users.
Zhang’s call to his mother during the rescue highlighted the risk he accepted to help a stranger in distress. The injured man’s safe removal from the burning truck marks the critical outcome of the event [1].
