Heroic Saudi drives burning truck, prevents petrol station explosion

Dubai: A Saudi man displayed extraordinary courage this week when a fire broke out in a truck loaded with animal feed at a petrol station in Dawadmi, Riyadh Province, narrowly averting a potential catastrophe.

Maher Fahd Al Dalbahi sprang into action as flames threatened nearby fuel tanks and panicked bystanders.

Social media users shared videos and photos showing Al Dalbahi leaping onto the burning truck and driving it away from the station, praising his quick thinking and bravery. Many have called for official recognition of his heroic act.

Al Dalbahi recounted the tense moment: “I was on my way to my village, Al Salihiya, and had stopped at a nearby shop when I saw the truck engulfed in flames after its driver was unable to control the fire.”

With the blaze dangerously close to petrol tanks, Al Dalbahi acted without hesitation. “All I thought about was saving the station and the people there,” he said. “I climbed onto the burning truck and drove it to a safe distance from the fuel tanks.”

Narrow escape at personal cost

The intervention prevented what could have been a massive explosion, but came at a personal cost. Al Dalbahi sustained severe first- and second-degree burns on his face, head, and limbs. He was rushed to King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, where he is receiving treatment from specialized medical teams.

According to his relative, Khaled Al Areedh, the injuries were serious but Al Dalbahi is stable and expected to recover.

Widespread praise

His daring actions have drawn widespread attention online. Many social media users hailed Al Dalbahi as a shining example of selflessness and courage, praising him for risking his own life to protect others and prevent a potentially deadly disaster.