King Salman honours Saudi hero who prevented gas station disaster
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Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has awarded the King Abdulaziz Medal of the First Class, one of the Kingdom’s highest honours, to a man who risked his life to avert a major disaster at a gas station.
Maher Fahad Al Dalbahi, in his 40s from Al Salihiya village, received the medal and one million riyals after Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman recommended him for his “exceptional bravery".
The incident occurred last Friday in Al Jamsh, Al Dawadmi governorate, about 300 kilometers from Riyadh. Al Dalbahi came across a truck loaded with animal fodder that was engulfed in flames. The driver had abandoned the burning vehicle dangerously close to the station’s fuel tanks.
Acting without hesitation, Al Dalbahi climbed into the truck and drove it away from civilians and fuel tanks, steering it into an open area. Authorities later said his actions prevented what could have been a catastrophic explosion.
Al Dalbahi sustained severe burns to his hands, legs and face while moving the truck. He was transferred to a hospital in Riyadh, where he is still receiving treatment.
His family described the royal recognition as a “profound honour”, calling it a symbol of appreciation from the nation’s leadership.
