BATESVILLE, Ark. – A local father is counting his blessings after a terrifying crash turned into a near-tragedy — one that was narrowly avoided thanks to the quick and selfless actions of two Independence County deputies.
On March 22, Dawson Blevins was driving with his son Shane when his truck veered off the road and crashed into a tree. The impact left Dawson severely injured and unable to escape as the vehicle caught fire — his foot trapped under the gas pedal.
Fortunately, help was already on the way. Two witnesses had reported the crash, and Independence County Sheriff’s Department deputies were dispatched immediately.
Corporal Keashawn Robinson was first to arrive on scene.
“I knew he had to get out of that truck, and that was my top priority,” Robinson said. “I wasn’t going to leave him there … I was going to be there with him.”
As the flames intensified, Deputy Cheyanne Malloy arrived and joined the rescue effort, shifting her focus to the growing fire as Robinson worked to free Blevins.
“I assisted trying to keep the flames off both of them, while he was trying to remove the individual from the truck,” Malloy said.
Through teamwork and determination, the two deputies successfully pulled Blevins from the burning wreckage. They assessed his injuries and stayed with him until emergency medical services arrived.
Blevins’ son Shane, who had recently celebrated a birthday, was deeply affected by the events of that day. His father credits the deputies’ courage for giving his family another day together.
“We just thank God he is still here with us and was able to have his birthday last week,” Dawson Blevins said.
Both Robinson and Malloy are being praised by the community for their heroic response — a reminder of the bravery and commitment shown daily by local law enforcement.
