Ottawa County Public Health worker braves rollover crash to rescue trapped driver
Swerving into action without hesitation, Curtis Critchlow pulled over, climbed through broken glass into the overturned vehicle, and freed the trapped driver.
OTTAWA COUNTY — What began as a routine drive back from a field inspection turned into a life-saving mission for Ottawa County Department of Public Health employee Curtis Critchlow, whose swift action following a rollover crash has earned him top honors for county customer service.
Critchlow was en route to his office when he witnessed a vehicle overturn in a traffic accident. Swerving into action without hesitation, Critchlow pulled over, climbed through broken glass into the overturned vehicle, and freed the trapped driver. He guided the woman to safety and remained at her side until first responders arrived on the scene.
County officials highlighted Critchlow's selflessness and composure under pressure as a stark embodiment of public service in action.
The rescue comes as part of Ottawa County’s broader Customer Service Initiative, a program launched in 2012 designed to empower county staff to solve problems and foster trust between local government and the community. Through its Customer Service Award program, the county regularly spotlights staff members who go above and beyond the call of duty.
County administration emphasizes that everyday interactions — and extraordinary interventions like Critchlow's — are vital to demonstrating the positive impact of local public servants.
Community members interested in nominating an Ottawa County employee for exceptional service can submit nominations at miOttawa.org/customerservice.
— Submitted by Ottawa County. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
