Newspaper article from our research archive:

Group heroism saves five lives as fire engulfs van for disabled; Bystanders in New Brighton didn't hesitate to risk their lives. Eight people were treated for smoke inhalation, but no injuries were considered serious.(NEWS)

Byline: Lora Pabst; Abby Simons; Staff Writers

Bystanders used fire extinguishers to smash the windows of a van and rescue five handicapped passengers minutes before the vehicle was engulfed in flames Wednesday in New Brighton.

Eight people were hospitalized for smoke inhalation, but quick thinking by employees at several businesses may have saved the lives of the people in wheelchairs in the van, authorities said.

Michael Zerka was working at Clocktower Liquors about 2 p.m. when his uncle, Assad Awaijane, saw the van pull up. They both rushed out with fire extinguishers.

"We saw smoke coming out of the hood," Zerka said. "The driver alone was able to get one ...

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