Fire Chief Says Bystanders Saved Baby’s Life After Fatal Head-On Crash in Saskatchewan

Quick-thinking bystanders are being credited with saving a baby’s life following a tragic head-on collision near Tompkins, Saskatchewan.

According to a report by CBC News, witnesses at the scene acted immediately after the crash, providing critical first aid that helped keep baby Winston alive until emergency crews arrived. Gull Lake Fire and Rescue Chief Bentley Gibson said their actions were the biggest relief in an otherwise devastating situation.
👉 Original source: Fire chief says bystanders saved baby’s life after fatal head-on crash near Tompkins, Sask.

A Tragic Crash on Highway 1

RCMP reported the collision occurred on Highway 1, just east of Tompkins, Saskatchewan. Police had been alerted to a vehicle speeding and driving on the wrong side of the highway only minutes before being called to a two-vehicle head-on crash.

Baby Winston was riding in the back seat of one of the vehicles. His mother, 27-year-old Melanie Hughes, and grandmother, 62-year-old Lorretta Hughes, were seated in the front and were both killed.

The driver of the second vehicle, a 66-year-old man from Gull Lake, was also pronounced dead at the scene. RCMP believe alcohol was a contributing factor.

Immediate First Aid Saved a Life

When fire crews from Gull Lake and Tompkins arrived, several bystanders were already assisting. At least three semi-truck drivers had stopped and safely removed the infant through the non-damaged side of the vehicle.

One bystander, a woman trained in first aid, immediately began caring for the baby. Chief Gibson said the infant had settled down and stopped crying by the time emergency crews reached him.

“She knew her first aid, and the baby was in very good hands,” Gibson said.

Why First Aid Training Matters

This rescue happened within moments—before first responders could arrive. The calm, confident actions of trained bystanders made the difference between life and death.

Situations like this highlight why comprehensive training, such as Standard First Aid and CPR, is so important. Courses like those offered by Winnipeg First Aid prepare everyday people to respond effectively during serious emergencies involving infants, children, and adults.

Community Gratitude

Chief Gibson did not catch the names of the bystanders but expressed deep gratitude for their courage and quick response, especially given the risk of fire after a severe collision.

Learn More / Enroll Now

Knowing first aid and CPR can save a life—especially in emergencies involving infants and children.
Be prepared to act when it matters most.

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

👉 [View full credentials]🔗 View LinkedIn Profile

Last reviewed: March 2026

Serving Winnipeg and south Manitoba with the cheapest priced, highest quality first aid training, CPR and food safety courses since 2012 with a commitment to providing the best classes to Canadians.