PNC Bank Staff Pull Vendor's Cart Inside During Phoenix Hailstorm

PNC Bank employees in Phoenix pulled a food vendor's cart inside their branch during a severe storm last week. The group acted quickly as strong winds and hail battered the area. A video of the rescue has since drawn more than 1 million views on TikTok.

The incident occurred at a local branch. Hilario Cruz Cruz, a longtime neighborhood vendor, was caught in the weather while operating his cart. An employee holding the door against the wind helped pull the cart to safety. Another young man assisted from the other side.

Cruz Cruz described the physical effort required to secure the door and move the cart. He stated that without the assistance of the bank staff, the group might not have been able to help him in time. The employees involved had been buying food from his cart for years.

The vendor believes that personal connection motivated the staff to intervene. He recalled the manager asserting that the cart would fit inside the building. Cruz Cruz initially doubted the space would be sufficient. The manager's confidence led to the successful rescue.

Cruz Cruz remained drenched after the storm passed. He had to walk past fallen trees and branches to return home. By the following week, he was back on Peoria Avenue selling elotes and fresh fruit. His business has increased significantly since the video spread online.

The vendor expressed deep gratitude to his long term customers and the bank manager. He noted that the staff ensured he did not suffer harm during the severe weather. PNC Bank has been contacted for additional information regarding the event.