A driver behind him struck a tree, and there was a fire.
Corbett was the first among several people who stopped to help. He called 911 and then tried to break the window, first using a fire extinguisher and then using his arms. After several tries it broke open enough for him to attempt to open the driver’s side door, but it was jammed.
As all this was playing out, the flames were advancing toward the front of the vehicle. He managed to get the back door open and maneuvered the female driver into the passenger seat. Corbett said he then fell out of the vehicle and two other men got the woman out.
In all, five people — Corbett, Joe Parent, Mark Cable, David Tetreault and Timothy Paquette — who came to Janet Heggeman’s aid on Route 25 that day were recognized by York County Sheriff’s Office and State Sen. Justin Chenette on Friday.
Sheriff William King said Heggeman is continuing to recover at home after nine days in intensive care and several surgeries. She was unable to attend the ceremony honoring the five men who rescued her from the burning car that day.
“These five individuals came together as a team to affect a dramatic rescue,” said King.
Chenette described the five’s actions as “truly heroic.” He noted out that they are being considered for a Carnegie medal, under the Carnegie Hero award program.
“You guys are all heroes in our books,” said Chenette.”You are all shining examples of the best in humanity.”
Other civilians were honored as well, including Luke Johnson, Adrianne Johnson, Alex McGreal and Sarah Irish, who helped find an 8-year-old autistic child in Lyman, and Rhonda Junkins and Pat Junkins of Cornish for finding a 12-year-old with Asperger’s syndrome. Both were returned home safe.
State Reps. Don Marean and Matthew Harrington read legislative sentiments honoring those who helped locate the youngsters.
Corbett, whose arms bear the marks of the cuts he got that day breaking the window glass, said after his role in the rescue played out, he got back in the truck and finished his day’s work.
“I just hope this woman is okay,” he said. “I’d do it again if I had to.”
— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or [email protected].
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