‘Bruce Willis of Reading’ Saves Man from Burning Building in Daring Crane Rescue
Glen Edwards, a 65-year-old crane operator, has been hailed a local hero after pulling off a dramatic rescue from a blazing building in Reading. Nicknamed the “Bruce Willis of Reading,” Edwards shared the unbelievable story during his first interview on ITV’s Good Morning Britain.
The Harrowing Rescue
While working 65 feet up at the Station Hill development on Thursday morning, Edwards heard fire alarms blaring around 11:40am. Looking up, he spotted a man stranded on the rooftop, waving his coat desperately. Without hesitation, Edwards swung his crane’s rescue cage through swirling smoke and strong winds to reach the trapped man.
“It was intense,” Edwards recalled. Guided by two colleagues on the ground communicating over radios, he carefully manoeuvred the cage to pluck the man to safety.
Emotional Aftermath
With three decades of crane-driving experience under his belt, Edwards was still visibly shaken by the rescue. On GMB, he admitted watching the footage back was tough. “I had a job to stand up after,” he said, remembering how he had to compose himself once the mission was complete.
Firefighters and Paramedics Praise Hero
The South Central Ambulance Service confirmed two people were treated for smoke inhalation but neither seriously injured. Meanwhile, the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue team lavished praise on Edwards’s “incredibly skilful rescue,” crediting him with preventing a far worse tragedy.
Public Cheers as Video Goes Viral
Video of the rescue quickly went viral, showing crowds cheering as Edwards gently lowered the man to safety. Edwards didn’t watch the footage for a couple of days and was stunned by the overwhelming public reaction.
What’s Next for the Crane Hero?
In a heartwarming move, Edwards hopes to meet the man he saved. Plans are also in motion to use funds from an online fundraiser to buy drinks for everyone involved in the rescue. “I know I got the guy out, but it just wasn’t all about me,” he said, emphasising the teamwork behind the heroic effort.
A True Tale of Bravery
Glen Edwards’s quick thinking and courage not only saved a life but united the community in admiration. His brave actions prove that heroes can come from the most unexpected places — even 65 feet in the air.
