The Associated Press
PRESCOTT, Wis. - A Prescott police officer who was injured as he tried to save a woman from a gas explosion says he’s sorry he wasn’t able to prevent her death.
But, his boss says Officer Ben Henrich is a hero nonetheless for risking his life.
The woman was driving a truck that smashed into a house Saturday night and ruptured a gas main. Friends identify the victim as Lisa Villigan.
As the sound and smell of gas escaped from the ruptured main, Henrich tried reaching the unconscious woman after directing the residents of the house to safety.
But, the gas ignited, causing an explosion that killed Villigan and sent the officer hurtling through the air.
Henrich crawled to his squad and radioed for help. He was treated for head and neck injuries.
Acting Police Chief Mike Bondarenko (bon-dah-REN'-koh) praised his officer’s selfless actions. He says it’s a miracle that Henrich was able to crawl away.