Abilene Fire Engine Rolls Over in Accident

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At 7:19AM this morning, radio traffic was received that no one on the Abilene Fire Department ever wants to hear.  A "Mayday" was heard over the radio given by one of Engine 5's crewmembers followed by, "our engine has just rolled over". 

Engine 5 was traveling South on Overland Trail, returning to the station from an Alarm Activation call at the Grove Apartments.  As the engine was approaching the Ambler intersection, the crewmembers reported the motor suddenly accelerating without cause.  As the driver tried to bring the engine to a stop, it slid sideways and then turned 180 degrees crossing the left hand lane of traffic.  As the tires of the engine came into contact with the shoulder of the road, they dug into the soft gravel causing the engine to flip onto its side.  At this time, the "Mayday" report was given and additional units were responded.  By the time secondary crews arrived all of Engine 5's crew were able exit the vehicle on their own.  Luckily, no other vehicles were involved and all AFD members only sustained minor injuries.  As a precaution, all four crew members were transported to Hendrick Hospital were they were evaluated and released. 

The engine, valued at approximately $500,000, was a 1996 Sutphen and sustained heavy damage.  The engine was towed to a fire department facility were it will be evaluated further as to whether it can be economically repaired.  The accident is still under investigation but it appears that speed was not a factor.  It was raining just prior to and at the time of the accident and this may have impacted the situation.


Author:Abilene Fire Department News Release