A state trooper and two bystanders jumped into action to rescue a man trapped in his burning car after a crash in Plainville Tuesday morning.
State police said David Bartlett, 58, of Plainville, was driving on Route 72 east near exit 3 when he lost control of his car and struck a metal guard rail before crashing into a bridge. The vehicle them burst into flame with Bartlett still inside.
Trooper Karanda, who was working a nearby highway construction detail, immediately responded. A construction worker and a passing motorist also ran over to help. Karanda smashed the driver’s side window and the three were able to pull the operator out.
Bartlett was transported by American Medical Response to Hartford Hospital for evaluation of his injuries. None of the rescuers were injured.
Route 72 was closed while crews cleared the crash and inspected the bridge. It has since reopened.
