Four inmates and a deputy from the Daviess County Detention Center were honored Tuesday for their bravery in rescuing a semi-truck driver trapped in a fiery crash that occurred on January 16 on the Wendell Ford Expressway (commonly referred to as the bypass).
Deputy Christopher Isbill, along with inmates Brian Boehman, Chalan Cox, Nicholas Edge, and Joshua Powell, worked together to save Bryan Marcum after his semi-truck jackknifed, flipped onto its roof, and caught fire during an accident. The crash occurred near the intersection of U.S. 431 and U.S. 231 as the inmates were assisting the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet with roadwork.
Daviess County Jailer Art Maglinger commended their actions during a ceremony at the detention center on Tuesday. The ceremony was attended by Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen, Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson, Marcum and his family, and detention center staff.
“These individuals placed themselves in harm’s way to save a life,” Maglinger said. “Their courage and quick action were remarkable, especially given the immediate danger from the fire and leaking fuel.”
The crash unfolded after a distracted driver struck a state work truck earlier that morning, prompting a response from emergency crews. Marcum’s semi-truck lost control while approaching the scene, narrowly avoiding the work crew before overturning.
Maglinger said the inmates and Isbill acted without hesitation. While Isbill and Cox extinguished flames near the engine, the other inmates used a tire jack to shatter the truck’s cab window and pull Marcum to safety. Despite the vehicle’s crushed frame and the risk of an explosion, Maglinger said the team managed to rescue Marcum, who suffered only minor injuries.
Marcum’s sister called Maglinger the day after the incident, crediting the group with saving her brother’s life.
“I submitted requests for extraordinary meritorious good time for the inmates involved,” Maglinger said. “Their actions went above and beyond, demonstrating heroism and humanity in the face of danger.”
The detention center also recognized Isbill for his leadership during the rescue, with Maglinger noting the deputy’s calm and decisiveness.
The ceremony concluded with letters of commendation presented to each of the honorees. Maglinger said the event serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and quick thinking in emergencies.
