We pass by them on our commutes through Atlanta, Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO) who patrol the busiest lanes in Georgia ready to assist others in need. It’s nice to know such a service exists but more important to remember that it comes with a price.
While this is not local news, we feel it’s important to share as a reminder to all to be diligent, respectful and safe when driving past HEROs, road crews, public safety personnel and others you might see stopped along Georgia’s roadways.
Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell McMurry issued this statement on March 15, 2016 regarding the passing of HERO Moses King:
“Today is a very sad day at the Georgia Department of Transportation and my heart is heavy as I bring you news about the passing of one of our Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO), Moses King. We extend our deepest condolences to the King family. King was an exemplary GDOT employee in his professional life and a kind and giving human being in his personal life.
This sad occasion is a profound loss to the Georgia DOT family, to the Atlanta region and the emergency response communities who place themselves in harm’s way every day to ensure the traveling public’s safety. Moses King was committed to making a difference on our roadways and in the lives of those who travel those roadways.
Moses joined Georgia DOT in September, 2014 as a HERO trainee, and from that moment he was dedicated to providing the very best service possible to the traveling public. In January of 2015, he was promoted to HERO Operator 1 and although he was considered a “rookie,” he exhibited the aptitude, responsibility and the professionalism to be placed on the weekend, overnight “Delta” shift.
When you ask Moses’ co-workers and supervisors who this man was…the words you hear are…soft spoken, dedicated, and committed with an unyielding willingness to get the job done.
In the early morning hours of Saturday, August 1, 2015 while this dedicated employee worked to protect accident victims; he himself became a victim and was struck by a motorist; was severely injured and has now lost his life.
Every day, our HEROs, other employees and emergency responders work on our roadways, trying to keep drivers safe. Since August 2015, two other HERO operators were injured while assisting those in need. We are certainly thankful that HEROs Chris Sesslar and Sam Washington are recovering and improving with each day.
As we mourn the loss of the very vital life of Moses King—I would be remiss to not plead with motorists to take responsibility for YOUR driving behavior. Please make it your obligation, your duty, your commitment and your way of life to Drive Alert.
By doing so, — I know that we will save lives and reduce the number of fatalities and work zone crashes.
Drive Alert Arrive Alive is a campaign that implores everyone to do three simple steps when you get in your vehicle – Buckle up; Stay off the phone and DRIVE ALERT, not impaired. Driving alert could have saved the life of Moses King and it just might save your life or the life of someone that you love.”
