Off duty volunteer police officer saves driver after M6 crash
Special Sergeant uses lorry to shield crash victim
Last updated 9th Mar 2026
A volunteer police officer from Lancashire has been praised for his swift and courageous actions following a serious collision on the M6 near Staffordshire.
Special Sergeant Alex Rose, who works as a long-distance lorry driver for the Bowker Group, intervened despite being off duty and out of uniform when he encountered a crashed vehicle positioned hazardously and facing oncoming traffic.
The driver in the vehicle was injured and in immediate danger.
Recognizing the risk of further collisions, Alex utilized his lorry to create a safety barrier, protecting the casualty from approaching traffic.
He then contacted emergency services, provided first aid, and assisted the driver out of the vehicle to a safer location away from the live carriageway.
Alex continued to warn oncoming motorists and slow traffic until Staffordshire Police and National Highways arrived and closed the motorway.
Reflecting on the incident, Alex said, “I did what any police officer would do. When I saw the situation unfolding, my only focus was keeping the driver safe and preventing anyone else from being hurt.
"The training we receive gives us the confidence to step in, even when we’re off duty, and I’m grateful I was in the right place to help.”
Chief Superintendent Ian Jones commended Alex’s actions, stating: “Alex demonstrated exactly what it means to serve the public, acting with courage, leadership and professionalism even when off duty.
"His quick thinking ensured the safety of a vulnerable casualty, helped prevent what could have been a far more serious incident and may well have saved the driver’s life."
William Bowker from the Bowker Group expressed pride in Alex’s actions: "We are incredibly proud of Alex and the calm, decisive way he responded in what was clearly a dangerous situation.
"His actions helped protect other road users and ensured the driver involved was brought to safety. On behalf of everyone at the company, I would like to personally thank Alex for his quick thinking and life-saving actions."