David Zorn’s courageous act in rescuing a police officer under attack earned him the 2000 North America Highway Hero Award. Goodyear made the announcement at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. Zorn, of Forest Park, Ga., was traveling through Norcross, Ga., when he witnessed Gwinnett County Police Officer Lou Gregoire being attacked. The suspect had Gregoire pinned and was trying to get his weapon. When Zorn stopped his 18-wheeler to assist, the suspect fled. Zorn pursued the suspect, caught him and held him until he could be handcuffed.
“I’m convinced that if David hadn’t done what he did, I would be dead right now,” says Gregoire. Zorn, a driver for Consolidated Freightways, and the other three finalists and their guests received an all-expense paid trip to the Daytona 500, as well as to Mid-America, a $10,000 savings bond and an engraved plaque. Zorn also received a diamond ring identifying him as the National Highway Hero.
The other finalists were:
· Brent Shupe of Charleston, Ill., who rescued three people from a burning car that had collided with his truck.
· Edward Bowlin of Black Mountain, N.C., who saved a woman being attacked by her estranged husband.
· Carl Tafua of San Jose, Calif., who helped save a young kidnap victim.
– Randy Grider
