School Welcomes Back ‘Hero’ Who Stepped in Front of Car

Maneklal Dahyabhai Patel came back to work a hero Monday, more than a week after he placed himself in the path of a car to protect schoolchildren he was helping cross the street.

The 63-year-old crossing guard was working Dec. 4 at Dorothy Lane and Acacia Avenue when he noticed a car turning into the crosswalk. He pushed one girl out of the way and hopped in front of another in the vehicle’s path. Police said the driver accelerated, knocked down Patel and grazed 9-year-old Hannah Glasgow.

Patel, who works for a private company that provides crossing guard service to city schools, suffered bruises and minor cuts.

“I’m very thankful that he helped us,” Hannah said. “He’s a hero and I’m glad he’s back at work.”

The fourth-grader eagerly awaited to cross the street with Patel Monday on her way to Acacia Elementary School. She expressed her gratitude and said she would continue to thank Patel every time she sees him.

Parents and Acacia’s principal already showered Patel with gifts and dozens of thank-you notes at last week’s Fullerton School Board meeting.

Principal Georgia P. Menges said she will be erecting a “Thank you crossing guards” sign in front of the school to remind Patel and other guards that they are appreciated.

Patel, she said, “acted quickly to do what needed to be done, getting himself between the children to protect them.

“We’re all very pleased,” Menges added. “He’s just really a very nice man.”

Police continue to investigate the accident.

As for Patel, he said he’s just glad to be back on the job. He added he plans to continue in his post for “a long time.”