In July 2017, Aaron Tucker left prison with just two dollars and great hope for a fresh start. He had a job interview that could change everything. Instead of focusing on himself, he helped a stranger trapped in a wrecked car. That decision cost him the chance at the job, but it brought something far more valuable.
An act of courage on the highway
Aaron was riding a bus from Bridgeport to Stamford for an interview at the popular restaurant Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. A week earlier he had left prison after serving 22 months for a weapons-related offence. He lived in a halfway house, was raising his little son and quite literally counted every cent.
As the bus passed Westport, Aaron noticed a serious accident – a car had crashed into a tree and overturned. Without hesitation he jumped off the bus, despite the driver’s warnings that he would be late for his meeting. Together with others, he pulled the 61-year-old driver out of the smoking wreck. He even used his smart shirt (borrowed for the interview) as a bandage to stop the bleeding.
„Jobs come and go, but you only get one life” – he later told reporters.
From loss to a wave of support
Being late meant losing that particular opportunity. However, the story quickly spread across the media. People were moved by the attitude of a man who was fighting for a second chance himself, yet still helped a stranger.
Neighbours and strangers launched a GoFundMe fundraiser. In a short time, more than $60,000 was raised. Several employers contacted Aaron, offering him jobs.
