NORTH PORT, Fla. – Take a look at the grass lawn on the side of the Walmart parking lot on Tamiami Trail in North Port, and it seems normal, but take a step closer, and you will see a broken tail light, a damaged fence and cut down trees.
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North Port creek crash rescue
That was left behind after a woman accidentally drove her car through this fence and into the creek.
“They had to don life vest PPE and swim over to the car,” said North Port Fire Rescue Lt. Raymond Coyle. “And they were able to remove the two passengers out of a window.”
Jumping into action
What we know:
Their rescuers came in the form of a Walmart grounds crew, who not only called 911 immediately, but then jumped into action, cutting down trees to help free the women.
“Thankfully, these lawn crew personnel did not hesitate,” Coyle said. “They immediately went straight into action because they saw the need for it.”
Lifesavers
What they’re saying:
Coyle said if these men had not seen the car go through the fence it could have been a different outcome.
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“They were just literally in the right place at the right time. I know everybody always says that, but thankfully, they were mowing that grass field right next to where the vehicle entered under it,” Coyle said. “Actually, went underneath a chain-like fence when it hit the vehicle. Basically dove under the fence and down into the vegetation. You couldn’t see it.”
One man who witnessed the rescue said it was a big response from first responders. He believes the grounds crew saved these women.
“It’s amazing, you have your fellow community members out here willing to put in an effort to aid you in your time of need; it speaks for itself,” Coyle said. “They saw someone who needed help, didn’t hesitate to take action. I commend them; it’s amazing. I’m super proud that they did that. I’m sure they are as well.”
What’s next:
Coyle expects the crew will be honored by the fire department in some way soon.
Creek crash cause investigation
What we don’t know:
Authorities have not released the identities or medical conditions of the two women involved.Â
Courtesy: North Port Fire Rescue
It has also not been confirmed what factors led to the vehicle going off the road and into the water.
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