Ohio troopers honor trucker’s son for bringing semi truck to a safe stop during medical emergency

This week, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) issued an award to the son of a truck driver for his quick-thinking during his father’s behind-the-wheel medical emergency.

On February 17, 2026, OSHP’s Lebanon Post issued Cassidy Collins a certificate of recognition for his “courageous actions” in preventing a possible tragedy last fall.

Troopers say that on November 19, 2025, Cassidy was resting in the sleeper berth while his father Gary was driving his semi truck along an Ohio roadway.

Cassidy felt the truck swaying and woke up to find his father suffering from a medical emergency.

“Cassidy climbed from the sleeper cab and attempted to gain control, moving his father out of the way and downshifting the tractor to stall the engine and applying the brakes. Once the vehicle completely stopped, Cassidy called 911 and performed CPR on Gary,” OSHP said.

First responders arrived at the scene, including OSHP Trooper Olson, who presented Cassidy with the certificate.

Cassidy said Trooper Olson was “was a friendly face and exactly what he needed to see.”

Gary was transported to a hospital and made a complete recovery.