Egyptian PM honours 'Superman' who drove burning fuel truck away from gas station
When a fuel supply truck caught fire at a gas station in Egypt on June 1, its driver faced a grim choice.
Khaled Mohamed Shawky, the driver of the truck which was parked at a gas station in the city of 10th of Ramadan, could have chosen to flee the vehicle and save his life from an imminent disaster. But he instead chose to sacrifice his life to save the lives of residents in the city, located in Egypt's Sharqia Governorate.
In a heroic behaviour reflecting quick thinking and selflessness, Khaled drove his burning truck away from the gas station — an act that earned widespread praise from both official and public circles in Egypt.
Footage that spread rapidly on social media showed the truck engulfed in flames, with thick columns of smoke billowing from it near the gas station, which is situated in a residential area.
After the incident, Khaled was transported to the hospital with severe burns and critical injuries. On Monday, he passed away. Ahl Masr Burn Hospital reported that Khaled had suffered burns covering over 60% of his body, in addition to severe respiratory damage caused by inhaling toxic fumes and gases from the fire.
Official recognition
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly mourned the heroic driver and issued directives to grant his family a generous financial reward, an exceptional pension, in appreciation and recognition of his bravery.
In a statement issued by the Egyptian Cabinet, Khaled was described as 'a symbol of sacrifice and swift action in an extremely dangerous situation—a positive response that prevented many casualties and damage, preserving numerous lives and properties.'
In recognition of what Khaled did, authorities also decided to name a street in the city after him.
Several Egyptian ministries announced rewards to Khaled's family, with the Ministry of Labour granting 200,000 Egyptian pounds (around Dh15,000).
The Egyptian Superman
On the popular front, many social media users praised the heroic act, with some sharing edited images of Khaled dressed as Superman.
One user wrote, 'He died while performing an act of the highest bravery and humanity. People like him must be honoured and remembered well. It's our duty to preserve his rights and ensure a dignified life for his family". Another said: "Some people die, but their virtues do not."
Khaled is survived by three daughters and one son.
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