CHEYENNE, Wyo. — A local FedEx driver, Shane Blackmon, was awarded the Civilian Lifesaving Award for his heroic actions in August.
On Aug. 20, Blackmon was delivering packages along his route when he noticed an overturned car on railroad tracks near the 600 block of Interstate 80 Service Road. A woman was sitting beside the vehicle. Blackmon stopped his vehicle and moved to assist her.
According to a press release by the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, the woman told him she had intentionally crashed her car onto the tracks in an attempt to end her life. Blackmon called 911 and remained on the scene. When he saw a train approaching, he acted quickly, pulling the woman away from the tracks and running toward the train to alert the conductor. The train operator activated the emergency brake system, preventing a collision with the car.
Minutes later, another train approached from the opposite direction. The woman attempted to step in front of it, but Blackmon intervened again, stopping her and staying by her side until deputies arrived.
“It’s an honor to recognize Shane. He put himself in harm’s way to help someone in need. Shane’s heroic actions saved a life,” Sheriff Kozak stated.
Blackmon’s bravery earned him the Civilian Lifesaving Award in recognition of his quick thinking and selflessness.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of harming themselves, please call 911. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text “WYO” to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line.
