Firefighters Extricate Driver in Fairfield Crash

FAIRFIELD, CT — A driver was hospitalized following a “rapid extrication” by emergency crews in a single-car accident off the Merritt Parkway on Sunday evening.

The Fairfield Fire Department responded to the Merritt Parkway southbound in the area of Merwins Lane at about 6:50 p.m. on April 3. The Westport Fire Department assisted with the extrication.

The driver was taken to St. Vincent’s Hospital for treatment. The extent of the driver’s injuries wasn’t immediately known late Sunday night.

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“A quick response and teamwork on the part of both the Fairfield and Westport Fire Departments this evening made this a very effective and efficient operation”, Fairfield Assistant Chief Erik Kalapir said in a statement.

Kalapir, the shift commander, arrived on scene and found a single vehicle on its side next to a tree. The vehicle was not on fire as reported, according to a press release.

After determining the driver required rapid extrication, crews made access through the windshield by sawing though the laminated glass, disentangled the airbag and provided a long board.

Westport Fire Department units arrived on scene and proceeded to stabilize the "on its side" motor vehicle to the tree.

The Westport Fire Department stabilized the vehicle and also provided additional extrication equipment if the mechanical extrication was needed, according to the press release.

Rapid extrication was performed by removal though the sunroof within eight minutes of arrival.

Connecticut State Police remained on the scene to investigate the crash.

Photos courtesy of the Fairfield Fire Department