Indianapolis, IN - Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Officer Javed Richards' quick actions this afternoon saved the life of a crash victim. The Indiana State Police received reports of a serious crash on I-465 southbound near Sam Jones Expressway around 2:20 this afternoon. Preliminary investigation indicates a flatbed tow truck had slowed down and activated emergency lighting in the left lane because of another tow truck on the left shoulder, towing a vehicle, attempting to merge into traffic. 51 year old Bridget Stroud of Indianapolis, struck the rear end of that flatbed tow truck as it slowed down in the left lane. The impact significantly damaged Stroud's 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, amputated her left arm and caused her to become entrapped in the vehicle.
Officer Richards was off duty when he came upon the crash scene, he stopped to assist and immediately identified the need for life saving measures. Richards quickly utilized a tourniquet to stop the severe bleeding and took measures to preserved the victim's arm. Medical personnel from the Wayne Township Fire Department responded quickly to the scene to assist and remove the victim from the wreckage. The medics on the scene told investigators the quick actions of Richards saved Stroud's life.
This is an ongoing investigation and there is no further information to release at this time. Two lanes of I-465 were closed while the crash was investigated and cleaned up. All lanes of I-465 are now open and Stroud is listed in stable condition at this time. The driver of the Affordable Towing tow truck was not injured in the crash.
Investigating Officer: Master Trooper Shanna Kennedy, Indiana State Police
Assisting Agencies: Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Wayne Township Fire Department, INDOT, Zore's Wrecker Service.
*Attached Photos: Officer Javed Richards and Stroud's vehicle
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