Florida Trooper Rescues Unconscious Driver From Burning Vehicle

Florida Trooper Rescues Unconscious Driver From Burning Vehicle

Posted: June 9, 2015 – 8 AM

At approximately 8:04 PM on Monday, June 8, 2015, 51 year-old Michael Lamar Brewer of St. Petersburg, Florida was severely injured in a vehicle crash.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Mr. Brewer was traveling northbound on I-275 in the exit lane to 54th Avenue North in a 2011 Infinity G37 when he failed to negotiate the curve on the exit ramp.  The vehicle departed the roadway and collided with several trees on the shoulder.

The Infinity caught fire and became fully engulfed with Brewer still inside the vehicle. Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Robert Duckers was nearby assisting another disabled motorist when he received word of the crash. Trooper Duckers ran to the burning vehicle, broke out the window of the vehicle and removed the unconscious driver.

Crews from St. Petersburg Fire worked to extinguish the fire and check for any other occupants. It was determined that Mr. Brewer was alone in the vehicle.

Trooper Duckers sustained minor injuries to his hand and arm while rendering aid and was transported to Bayfront Health St. Petersburg for medical care.  Duckers was released overnight from the hospital after receiving care for minor injuries.

Brewer was transported to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries and remains at Bayfront receiving care for his injuries.

Brewer is charged with Felony Driving with Suspended License, No Seatbelt and Careless Driving. According to County records, Mr. Brewer has a long history of arrests in Pinellas County. His past legal issues range from simple traffic infractions to driving on suspended license, driving under in influence, felony fleeing and eluding and drug possession.