Orlando & Seminole Fire Departments Honor Off-Duty Firefighter for Helping Save Sheriff's Deputy

The Orlando Fire Department, the Seminole County Fire Department and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office recently recognized Orlando Fire Department’s Lt. Benjamin Wootson for his off-duty heroic actions in helping save a Seminole County Sheriff’s Deputy after a car accident. The car accident happened on March 24, 2023 where a Sheriff’s Deputy vehicle was fully involved in crashing into a concrete bridge support on Wayside Drive and Orange Blvd. in Sanford.
 
The scene was frantic with heavy smoke and fire conditions. Prior to Seminole County Fire Department units arriving on scene, off duty Lt. Wootson was traveling behind the deputy on his way to a soccer game with his son and stopped to render aid once the crash occurred. Without hesitation, Lt Wootson sprang into action and was able to extricate the deputy from the vehicle despite heavy front end damage. Moments after removing the injured deputy, the car burst into flames from the engine compartment.
 
“In my experience as a long-time Special Hazards & Operations Team member responding to many scenes similar to this one, I have not seen an act of heroism and selflessness like this,” said Lt. Brad Dickey of the Seminole County Fire Department, who responded to the scene with his crew.  “At the scene, the Seminole County Sheriff Office vehicle was so badly damaged that there is no logical explanation as to how the driver door was able to be opened to get the victim out. Had it not been for Lt Wootson's quick thinking and experience, the outcome would have been much different. Lt. Wootson undoubtedly saved this Deputy's life from a situation that would have normally claimed a life. The Seminole County Fire Department is thankful for the positive outcome and help from our partners.”