by Dennis Dalman
If it weren’t for the quick-thinking action of Jared Bentrud, a Sartell resident, a Sauk Rapids man who was severely injured in a vehicle accident in January would likely have died within minutes.
Bentrud was honored recently with a Life Saving Award at a Benton County Commissioners’ meeting for “quick, heroic action” in saving the life of Charon Ricks, 47.
On the morning of Jan. 13, Ricks, a tow-truck driver with All Care Towing of St. Cloud, was at the scene of a car in the ditch on North Benton Drive. The car, driven by Bentrud, had slipped off the icy road into the ditch. Ricks had just removed Bentrud’s car from the ditch when another vehicle on the roadway crashed into the tow truck, smashing Ricks between his truck and Bentrud’s car.
Seeing gaping wounds spouting blood on both of Ricks’ legs, Bentrud quickly acted by putting tourniquets around the legs to stop or slow the bleeding. Medical personnel and deputies at the scene said later that Ricks would likely have bled to death if it were not for Bentrud’s quick and expert response.
Ricks, a military veteran, underwent multiple surgeries for his injuries, but unfortunately his right leg could not be saved and had to be amputated at the St. Cloud Hospital. He is recovering well and is in good spirits, his friends report.
Bentrud, the son of David and Beth Bentrud of Sartell, is a student at Bethel University (St. Paul) and a member of the Minnesota Reserve Officer Training Corps. A 2021 graduate of Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, he was honored that year as one of the top 10 achieving graduates.
Jared Bentrud
