Dramatic Moments Caught on Video as Trash Truck Catches Fire
Fire Erupts in Yorba Linda Neighborhood
Dramatic moments in a Yorba Linda neighborhood were captured on video Friday morning when a driver jumped from a burning trash truck, then scrambled to get back inside as the truck rolled down a hill.
Truck Strikes Two Vehicles, Fire Contained
The truck struck an SUV and a pickup truck, but the owners said they’re thankful the driver was able to steer the truck away from their home. The fire was contained to the truck, two vehicles, and a tree.
Driver Uninjured, Operator’s Quick Thinking Saves the Day
The trash truck driver was not injured. The operator, who was identified as a woman, can be seen on video jumping out of the truck as it slowly rolls into an SUV parked on a curb. She then scrambled to avoid the SUV being pushed by the truck as she tried to get back inside the cab. She appeared to briefly enter the cab before running from the flames. The truck came to a stop partially on a sidewalk next to a pickup.
Captain Sean Doran, Orange County Fire Authority, Praises Operator’s Actions
"She was doing her best effort to stop the vehicle from rolling and possibly doing more damage," Captain Sean Doran of the Orange County Fire Authority said.
Holman Family’s Christmas Miracle
The Holman family’s new cars and Christmas gifts inside burned, but the family said they’re thankful the operator prevented more damage. "She did a hell of a job," said Mark Holman, a resident. "Really moved the truck away from electrical, the houses."
Republic Services Statement
In a statement to NBCLA, Republic Services wrote: "We are grateful that all parties are safe after today’s incident in Yorba Linda. The safety of our colleagues and communities is our top priority, and we are working with authorities to determine the cause of the fire."
FAQs
Q: What happened to the trash truck driver?
A: The trash truck driver was not injured.
Q: How did the fire start?
A: Details about how the fire started were not immediately available.
Q: What was the extent of the damage?
A: The fire was contained to the truck, two vehicles, and a tree.
Q: How did the operator of the trash truck react?
A: The operator jumped out of the truck, scrambled to avoid the SUV being pushed by the truck, and then ran from the flames.
