Custer County, OK – Oklahoma Highway Patrol is crediting the quick actions of Trooper Eric Burchett with saving a man’s life after a violent incident along Interstate 40 near Clinton on the morning of November 16.
According to OHP, Trooper Burchett was on routine patrol when he spotted a vehicle stopped on the shoulder of I-40. Not knowing what he would find, he pulled in behind the Jeep to check on the driver.
As he walked up, Trooper Burchett saw that the man behind the wheel was in severe distress and bleeding from serious self-inflicted injuries. Troopers say Burchett immediately disarmed the man by taking a knife away, then radioed OHP Communications for an ambulance and ran back to his patrol unit for his medical kit.
When he returned to the Jeep, the driver tried to get out of the vehicle. OHP says the man, weak from blood loss, grabbed Trooper Burchett in an attempt to attack him. Burchett quickly used a leg sweep to take the man to the ground so he could safely begin lifesaving treatment.
Trooper Burchett applied pressure to the man’s wounds and, recognizing how critical the situation had become, requested a medical helicopter to get him to advanced care as quickly as possible.
OHP Lieutenant Aaron Hunter and a local police officer arrived moments later to assist. Working together, they continued to treat and reassure the man until EMS reached the scene. Paramedics then took over care and transported him to a nearby hospital.
In a public statement, OHP said there is “no doubt” that Trooper Burchett’s decision to stop, along with his quick thinking and calm response, saved the man’s life. The agency also thanked all of the law enforcement and medical crews involved for their teamwork and fast response.
OHP used the incident to remind Oklahomans that help is available for anyone struggling with stress, depression, or thoughts of self-harm. They encouraged people to reach out and stressed that asking for help is a sign of strength.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs someone to talk to, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time.
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