FedEx driver honored with Civilian Lifesaving Award

CHEYENNE (WNE) — During the Laramie County Sheriff ’s Office’s annual awards ceremony, Shane Blackmon, a local FedEx driver, was awarded the Civilian Lifesaving Award.

According to a news release, on Aug. 20, while delivering packages on his route, Blackmon noticed a passenger car overturned on railroad tracks in the 600 block of the Interstate 80 Service Road and a woman sitting by the car. Blackmon exited his vehicle and ran to check on her. The woman told Blackmon she had crashed her vehicle onto the tracks to try to kill herself. He called 911.

When Blackmon saw a train was coming, he pulled the woman from the tracks and ran toward the train, waving his arms. The conductor noticed Blackmon and activated the emergency brake system to stop the train, avoiding crashing into the vehicle. Minutes later, a train came from the opposite direction. The woman moved as if she was going to step in front of the train. Blackmon stopped her and stayed with her until deputies arrived.

Sheriff Brian Kozak said in the release, “It’s an honor to recognize Shane. He put himself in harm’s way to help someone in need. Shane’s heroic actions saved a life.”

This story was published on December 11, 2024.