Man From Lynn Was Victim In Salem Car Fire

SALEM, MA -- Salem Police believe the man badly injured in a car far near Salem High School last Monday when he lit a cigarette and accidentally ignited the oxygen in his breathing unit. Walter Welch, 66, of Lynn, was waiting for his daughter who had gone into a nearby building on business. He remained hospitalized and Brigham & Women's in Boston as of Friday afternoon.

The Salem News, which first reported this story, said Salem Police Sgt. Bob Lubas was on his way to work when he heard the call. Lubas pulled Welch from the burning car and smothered the flames. He then began first aid.

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Patch file photo.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).