On Friday, a semi-truck driver was rescued by firefighters after a crash left the vehicle hanging over the Ohio River on the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge, connecting Louisville, Kentucky, to southern Indiana.

The three-vehicle crash occurred around noon, as reported by Louisville Fire Chief Brian O’Neill during a press conference. One other person involved in the crash was promptly transported to the hospital, and rescue crews were mobilized to save the trapped truck driver.

Setting up a rope system took about 40 minutes, and a responder was prepared to rappel down to the cab, secure the driver with a safety harness, and bring her to safety, O’Neill explained. The driver was subsequently taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure.

“This is very much a worst-case scenario," O’Neill stated, highlighting that the rescue company is trained for such situations and the operation proceeded smoothly due to their preparedness and expertise.

"These were some serious heroes here," he said. "This was some really professional, well-practiced, well-trained stuff. They got right out there, got right to her."

Louisville Metro Police are conducting an investigation into the crash, and as of Friday afternoon, the bridge remained closed in both directions.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet stated that a safety inspection of the bridge would be conducted once all vehicles were removed.