Truck fire victim remains optimistic in recovery

ATLANTA, Ga. — A Gwinnett County man who was trapped in a burning truck is making a remarkable recovery and looking forward to the future.

He was burned over more than 50 percent of his body. Despite the odds, he is alive and hoping to leave Grady Hospital soon.

Taray McGinnis said he remembers the incident on March 9 vividly. He was driving his pickup truck northbound on Interstate 85 when the truck burst into flames.

A passing Marine and firefighter’s wife stopped to help him near Old Peachtree Road, pouring water on him.

He has severe burns on his head, face and arms, which doctors say are expected to heal completely.

His mother, Tracey McGinnis, said her son has done a good job of remaining optimistic during the past few months.

“Since he's been awake, he's had some down days, but for the most part he's up,” she said.

McGinnis told Channel 2’s Tony Thomas that while he is somewhat nervous to re-enter society given his facial burns, he is looking forward to the future.

“I feel blessed that God kept me alive. I'm just looking forward to the future because they tell me I'm not always going to look like this,” he said.

WSBTV