Even superheroes need help sometimes. A Colorado sheriff’s deputy came to the rescue of “Captain America” last Wednesday after the hero’s motorcycle broke down while an route to a children’s hospital event.
Matt Gnojek, who goes by Colorado Captain, was on his way to participate in a holiday parade at a local hospital when his motorcycle’s engine failed, leaving him stranded on the side of the highway south of Denver.
Deputy Zach Zepeski of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office encountered Gnojek while patrolling the area. “I just wanted him to focus on being safe,” Zepeski told CNN.
Gnojek explained that his insurance didn’t cover the cost of towing, and that he was arranging a ride with a friend. Interested in the superhero’s costume and his “military-style” motorcycle, Zepeski asked where he was headed. Upon learning that Gnojek was on his way to the hospital, Zepeski sprang into action.
Body camera footage released by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office captured part of the encounter, which shows Zepeski offering to pay for the tow and ensuring the motorcycle was moved safely until the tow truck arrived. He stayed to make sure Gnojek’s friend could pick up the vehicle.
Zepeski, who had attended similar parades for children in the past, said, “Seeing the smiles on their faces is just amazing. He’s doing this to make people smile, and if I can help with that, that’s all I needed.”
Although Gnojek missed the hospital parade, he has since participated in other events, including the “Shop with a Cop” event organized by Zepeski’s sheriff’s office, where underprivileged children received gift cards to shop for holiday gifts.
“I’m so grateful to Zepeski – thanks to him, I get to continue visiting kids and rally more support for the cause,” Gnojek told CNN.
As Colorado Captain, Gnojek raises funds for families fighting pediatric cancer through the Cap for Kids organization. He also visits hospitals, refugee centers, and veteran events.
Zepeski’s kind gesture has garnered praise on social media, with many offering to cover the towing cost. Zepeski declined, encouraging people to donate instead to Colorado Captain or other children’s charities. “I’d rather see it go to them than to me,” he said.
