Additional Coverage:
- Driver rescues disabled child walking alone on Ohio highway during brutal polar storm (themirror.com)
Local Truck Driver Hailed as Hero After Rescuing Missing Child
An Ohio truck driver is being celebrated for his quick thinking and compassion after rescuing a missing child. Derek Flory was driving his truck along U.S. 23 North when he spotted something unusual on the roadside.
Initially, he thought it was a bicycle because of a flashing light. As he got closer, he realized it was a young girl walking alone.
Flory immediately pulled over, turned on his hazard lights, and rushed to the child’s aid. He brought her into his truck and parked at a nearby business to call the authorities.
The Scioto County Sheriff’s office had been searching for the 12-year-old, who has developmental disabilities. Her grandmother had reported her missing just minutes before Flory found her.
The girl’s phone’s flashlight is what caught Flory’s attention. He acknowledged the fortunate timing and expressed relief that he saw her.
A father of two young girls himself, Flory was deeply affected by the incident. He is thankful he was in the right place at the right time.
Police have confirmed the girl has been safely reunited with her family. No injuries were reported.