Brave Local Man Rescues Two from Burning Vehicle
January 22, 2025
Noteworthy events unfolded in Neenah, Wisconsin, where a courageous act brought local attention.
During a cold Monday evening, Tanner Ater was quick to respond to a dangerous car crash in Neenah, Wisconsin, saving two individuals and receiving much community praise.
City of Neenah, Wisconsin Police Department
The incident occurred after Ater, hearing a loud crash near his residence, went to assess the situation. According to Neenah police, a vehicle had collided with a fire hydrant, then veered off an embankment, and finally hit a tree along Gillingham Road. The car, resting on its side, began to catch fire.
Without hesitation, Ater jumped into action. Seeing a woman in distress, he gathered his snow gear, phone, and a fire extinguisher, then drove his tow truck to the accident site. Once there, he managed to extinguish the flames and assisted the woman, who was on top of the overturned vehicle, to safety. Despite the intense smoke and freezing temperatures, Ater’s efforts continued.
“I got the wife off, but the main one was the husband (who was still inside the car), flames were starting to re-engulf the car,” Ater explained. “I was worried I wasn’t going to get him out in time but thank God the cop got on scene when he did because without his help I wouldn’t have gotten him out.”
The rescue took place in hazardous conditions, with temperatures plummeting to -8°F.
“I didn’t have gloves on and my hands were almost frostbite,” Ater shared with Local 5 News. “At that point in time, I didn’t think of anything else to grab. Just wanted to get out there and rescue them because I saw smoke come from the car.”
The rescued individuals were subsequently taken to the hospital. While the female passenger was discharged, the male driver remains hospitalized with unspecified injuries.
Authorities have commended Ater’s heroic actions publicly.
“The heroic citizen who leaped into action, rescuing the passenger and driver from the burning vehicle is 30-year-old male, Tanner Ater, of Neenah,” the local police department stated.
“We are thankful to the Winnebago County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office, Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue, and Gold Cross Ambulance for their assistance on scene… and… A VERY SPECIAL ‘Thank you!’ to the courageous Neenah resident who rushed to help.”
