A timber trucker from New York has been hailed as a ‘highway hero’ for his courageous act of using his 18-wheeler to stop a shooter who had injured a police officer on Interstate 88. The incident occurred in June 2023 when Timothy VanNostrand was about to overtake a state trooper initiating a traffic stop.

VanNostrand, who runs a logging transport company in Northville, New York, is accustomed to high-risk situations, though not typically involving gunfire. He recounted to Fox News Digital how the event unfolded rapidly, leading to his decisive intervention. Observing the trooper being shot at by the car’s driver, VanNostrand maneuvered his truck to trap the shooter’s vehicle against the roadside, effectively ending the threat. Details on whether the shooter was arrested, injured, or killed were not specified.

For his actions, VanNostrand was recognized by the New York State Police and awarded the Goodyear Highway Hero Award by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. This honor highlights the significant role commercial truckers play in community safety and the economy, with trucking being vital for transporting a large portion of U.S. goods.

In addition to the accolade, VanNostrand received a cash prize and a ride in the Goodyear blimp. He reflected on the intense moments during the shootout, noting the uncertainty of the situation but ultimately the correctness of his actions. VanNostrand emphasized the strong sense of community and mutual support among those in his profession, underscoring their readiness to protect others.