Gas Station Fire Extinguished by Heroic Customer in Des Plaines

A potentially catastrophic gas pump explosion at a gas station in Des Plaines was averted thanks to the quick response of a customer, according to a special presentation honoring the man’s actions at a Des Plaines City Council meeting on Monday. Des Plaines Police Chief William Kushner presented Kenneth Krozel with the Citizen Award of Valor.

Krozel was pumping gas at a Mobil gas station, 800 W. Oakton St., on Jan. 18, Kushner said, when he saw a fireball coming from the gas pump next to the one he was using.

The ground and the vehicle using that pump were on fire, Kushner said. Krozel ran to the entrance of the gas station, grabbed the outdoor fire extinguisher, Kushner said, and extinguished the fire.

All of the gas pumps were put on emergency shut-off, Kushner said, and no injuries were reported. Public safety personnel on the scene and Mobil gas management agreed Krozel’s quick thinking and immediate action prevented a potentially catastrophic gas pump explosion and structure fire, Kushner said.

“Mr. Krozel’s heroic actions potentially saved a vehicle owner’s life and the lives of many others who may have been affected had the fire spread not been contained prior to reaching the volatile gasoline tanks,” Kushner said. “Mr. Krozel’s actions went above and beyond those of a concerned citizen and demonstrated consideration and caring for the well-being of a fellow human.”

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