Belgian Passenger Saves Dozens in Heroic Act as FlixBus Driver Falls Ill on E19 Motorway

Quick Thinking Averts Disaster as Commuters Grateful for Passenger’s Courageous Actions

Belgium, Brussels- February 7, 2024: On the E19 motorway near Mons, Belgium, a potentially catastrophic accident was narrowly avoided thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of one passenger aboard a FlixBus bound for Brussels.

Ward Van Roy, a Belgian citizen, found himself thrust into a harrowing situation when the bus suddenly began swerving uncontrollably, careening dangerously close to the guardrail and central reservation. 

With the driver incapacitated and unresponsive, Van Roy courageously stepped in to take control of the vehicle, ultimately preventing what could have been a devastating incident.

Speaking to Flemish radio following the ordeal, Van Roy recounted the moments of chaos and fear as he realized the gravity of the situation. 

“At first, I thought he had fallen asleep, so I wanted to wake him up. But when I saw the driver, I knew something was seriously wrong. He was looking straight ahead but was unresponsive,” he explained.

Undeterred by the unfamiliarity of operating a bus, Van Roy swiftly took action, manoeuvring the vehicle onto the hard shoulder and bringing it to a safe stop, much to the relief of his fellow passengers. 

“The other passengers were in shock,” he recounted. “They were screaming, or they were completely frozen. Of course, I am not used to driving a bus either. When I pushed on the brakes, everyone started screaming even more. I braked quite hard, apparently.”

Amidst the chaos, a doctor onboard provided critical first aid to the incapacitated driver before emergency services arrived to transport him to the hospital. It was later determined that the driver had suffered a stroke, necessitating immediate surgery. 

The passengers and Van Roy expressed their hopes for his swift and complete recovery.

Following the incident, another driver arrived to safely transport the shaken but grateful commuters to their final destination in Brussels. 

The heroic actions of Van Roy were met with widespread praise and gratitude, with many acknowledging that his quick thinking and selflessness had undoubtedly saved lives.

The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of travel and the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared for any eventuality. 

Van Roy’s bravery in the face of danger is a testament to the power of human courage and compassion in the most challenging circumstances.

As the passengers reflect on their narrow escape, they are grateful for Van Roy’s heroic intervention, recognizing him as a true guardian angel on that fateful journey along the E19 motorway.

This article war created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members