Five individuals pose for a photo in front of an ambulance. It includes the four good Samaritans who saved the deputy’s life.

Good Samaritans Honored by Orange County for Saving a Local Sergeant’s Life

Public Health & Safety

Four local good Samaritans were recognized today for saving the life of Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Jamie Hoffman from a fiery crash last year on State Road 408.

On the morning of July 1, 2018, Sgt. Hoffman’s patrol car crashed on the 408 between Pine Hills Road and Old Winter Garden Road. His cruiser burst into flames and Sgt. Hoffman was rendered unconscious from the crash. Four good Samaritans sprang into action and saved his life by pulling him out of the burning car.

Mayor Demings surrounded by Fire Rescue personnel standing in a semi circle inside of a Fire Station. An ambulance is parked behind them.

Mayor Jerry L. Demings joined Orange County Fire Rescue Fire Chief Otto Drozd, III and Orange County Sheriff John Mina with Sgt. Hoffman to honor the local residents in a special presentation on Feb. 7, 2019. For the first time since the accident, Sgt. Hoffman was reunited with the good Samaritans and the crews from Fire Station 30 who responded to the crash.

“From the bottom of my heart, my family and my agency, I thank you for your bravery that day,” said Sgt. Hoffman to the four heroes.

The good Samaritans included a husband and wife, a military veteran and a nurse.

“When people are in trouble and need help, more often than not, I believe that good people step up and work alongside our first responders,” Mayor Demings said at the recognition ceremony. “Fire crews credit the husband and wife team who had a medical kit in their car and rendered aid, and a military veteran and nurse who collectively showed great courage at a time when one of our own needed them the most.”

The recognition event, hosted by Orange County Fire Station 30 in Orlo Vista, honored each hero with a Lifesaving Award.

“In Orange County Fire Rescue, it’s become tradition to celebrate acts of kindness and there is no greater one than saving a life,” Chief Drozd said. “The combined efforts of these good Samaritans are extraordinary. Their prompt actions, without regard for their life or safety, are credited to saving the life of Sgt. Jamie Hoffman.”

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