A dramatic rescue unfolded in Dublin’s Granby Row on Monday morning when a courageous lorry driver, Tomasz Zareba, used his vehicle to save a man trapped in a burning building.
The incident occurred shortly after 08:00 local time, with thick black smoke billowing from the four-story building. Zareba, a delivery driver for Eurospar, reversed his lorry up to the building, allowing the trapped man to jump to safety onto the vehicle’s roof.
Describing the moment, Zareba said, “I just thought it would be much safer for him to jump on the lorry instead of the footpath.” He had noticed smoke coming from the window while making his delivery rounds and saw flames engulfing the building. A man was screaming for help from a third-floor window, unsure of what to do with flames behind him and a long drop below.
Zareba recounted, “I reversed the lorry as close as I safely could to the window and the other lads from the footpath told him to jump on the roof of the lorry. He was ok, I think.” After ensuring the man’s safety, Zareba pulled the lorry to a safe location and waited for the fire brigade, who later commended him on his heroic actions.
Zareba’s bosses praised his quick thinking and bravery. Joanne Mellon, Logistics Director of BWG Foods, which owns Eurospar in Ireland, said, “We want to commend Tomasz for his quick thinking to help this person escape from the burning building. It was an incredibly brave intervention.” The Dublin Fire Brigade reported seven people were treated at the scene, with three taken to the hospital for further treatment.
This heroic act has garnered widespread recognition, with many hailing Zareba as a hero for his selfless actions. Despite his heroic deed, Zareba continued with his deliveries, showcasing his dedication to his job.