Man throws spilled stones at burning truck to save driver

CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (AP) -- The driver of a dump truck that crashed in western New York and became engulfed in flames is crediting a passing motorist with a strong throwing arm for saving his life.

Larry Coulter tells WIVB-TV ( http://bit.ly/1BPThg0 ) that he was hauling load of stones Monday afternoon on the Thruway near Buffalo when one of his tires blew, sending his truck into a guardrail and overturning.

Coulter says the guardrail punctured the fuel tank, igniting a fire that quickly spread as he was trapped inside the cab. He tried unsuccessfully to kick out the windshield.

Motorist Ed Brunner stopped his vehicle and threw stones from the spilled load to crack the windshield enough for Coulter to kick his way free. Brunner then helped the driver escape.

Coulter calls Brunner "my guardian angel."

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Information from: WIVB-TV, http://www.wivb.com

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