A police report indicates that a door latch and seat belt may have contributed to a Kansas City firefighter's fall and subsequent head injury last week.
The injury occurred on Dec.12 when firefighters were headed to a grocery store.
According to KSHB 41 News, the Kansas City Police report stated the fire apparatus was turning left onto Shawnee Drive from 47th Street when the front passenger door opened and the occupant fell out, hitting his head on the pavement.
The investigation focused on the cab's door lock and what appeared to be regular contact with the seat belt in that area. Investigators believe the belt was in contact with the Nader pin preventing the lock from latching.
The injured firefighter was not wearing a seatbelt, the report indicated.
Fire Department Spokesman Scott Schaunaman told KSHB that "the firefighter has improved significantly."
"He has been released from ICU status, but remains in the hospital," Schaunaman added. "He is awake and alert and answering questions appropriately."
