Reno, Nevada — A family's risky attempt to recover lost medication scattered across Interstate 580 prompted a private security officer to stop and help.

At approximately 3:42 p.m. on August 24, Andy Ng, Chief Administrator of Civil Security Service, was returning to Reno from a client assignment when he encountered the hazardous situation at mile marker 7 on I-580 North. A vehicle with an attached trailer had pulled to the shoulder after a cargo strap snapped, scattering personal belongings across both lanes. Among the items was a supply of expensive prescription medication.

The motorist and his two teenage daughters had exited the vehicle and were attempting to clear away debris, risking their safety to recover the medication and other items while traffic continued northbound.

To prevent a potential traffic incident, Ng shielded the family with his marked patrol vehicle and activated its warning lights to safely redirect traffic around them.

"That stretch of road has a blind curve, so my first instinct was to make sure no one was hurt," said Ng.

"I just happened to be there at the right time, and of course, I had a vehicle that's built to help."

After identifying himself as off-duty private security and confirming that there were no injuries that required immediate care, Ng notified Nevada State Police and remained at the scene to ensure the family's safety. Traffic was able to flow around the family on the shoulder, avoiding broken glass and debris.

"Grabbing items from the middle of a busy freeway is dangerous," said Ng. "Things can go bad in an instant, so you have to ask yourself: 'What would make it worth the risk?'"

"When [the father] told me it was his wife's entire supply of diabetes medication, everything became clear."

Approximately 15 minutes after Ng's initial arrival, the roadway was cleared and the family returned safely to their vehicle. The incident was captured on multiple in-car cameras aboard Ng's security vehicle.

"I started Civil Security Service to help people," says Ng. "That's our top priority. We're always ready to step up when someone is in need."