Injured Firefighter Cuts Ribbon on New Training Facility

JACKSONVILLE, AR -- A Jacksonville firefighter severely injured while responding to a car crash cut the ribbon on a training unit named after him on Tuesday.

Jason Bowmaster opened a new center used for firefighter training.

A year ago today, Bowmaster, fellow firefighter Donny Jones and Jacksonville Police Officer Daniel DiMatteo were helping a woman who crashed into a gas main along the highway.

Police say Bryce Allen crashed into them, injuring Bowmaster and DiMatteo, and killing Jones.

"I can't even put into words how much I appreciate this," Bowmaster says. "It's kept us in our house and kept food on our tables. Definitely appreciate that."

A court found Bryce Allen unfit to stand trial for the murder and injuries.