UPDATE October 14th:
Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District posted an update on Battalion Chief Millican progress after he was struck while working on I-75 last month.
According to the post, Millican has been flown from the Gulf Coast Hospital's ICU to The Shepard Center in Georgia. The department calls this a "major step on his road to recovery".
"For the past month, Chief Millican has fought with unwavering strength after being struck while working on the interstate. His resilience, spirit, and determination continue to inspire every one of us. As he begins this next phase of healing and rehabilitation, we stand beside him- as brothers, sisters, and a fire family to remind him that no one fights alone. Stay strong, Chief. We’re behind you every step of the way." - Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District
UPDATE Sept. 16:
Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue says the Battalion Chief's breathing tube has been removed.
He's been able to communicate by blinking, moving his hands, and speaking a little through sedation, according to an update from the first district.
The department says his wife shared that the injured firefighter told her he loves her, too.
According to this latest update, the battalion chief is also able to share basic needs, too.
UPDATE Sept. 15:
The fire department said the Battalion Chief's surgery went well and doctors remain "very positive about his recovery."
"We are so grateful for the continued outpouring of thoughts and prayers — they are truly making a difference," the department said on Facebook. "The hospital staff has been very impressed with his progress, and his family is deeply thankful for all of the support shown during this time."
UPDATE:
A Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District battalion chief is in critical but stable condition after being struck by an SUV, while responding to a separate emergency on Interstate 75.
The injured firefighter was transported to Gulf Coast Hospital.
The department is working closely with the Florida Highway Patrol on the investigation.
"Our department's priority right now is supporting our firefighter, his family, and our crews," spokesperson said.
ORIGINAL STORY:
A firefighter was critically injured early Saturday morning after being struck by an SUV while directing traffic on Interstate 75.
The incident occurred at 12:33 a.m. on southbound I-75 at mile marker 116, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The 51-year-old male firefighter was wearing a reflective vest and standing on the inside shoulder, assisting with traffic direction from an unrelated crash when a 58-year-old female driver from Naples veered her SUV onto the shoulder to avoid slower and stopped traffic ahead.
The front of the SUV collided with the firefighter, who sustained critical injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The driver was not injured in the crash.
FHP says the crash remains under investigation.
