Car goes off bridge in Brown County

Oct 1, 2024 at 1:50 PM

Dramatic Rescue: SUV Plunges into Creek, Driver Airlifted to Safety

In a harrowing incident, emergency crews were called to the scene of a vehicle accident on Highway 377 early this morning. A sport utility vehicle had veered off the bridge and plunged into Blanket Creek, leaving the driver stranded and in need of immediate assistance.

Heroic Response Saves the Day

Mutual Aid Call Sparks Rapid Response

The early morning call for mutual aid came in just after 8:30 AM, alerting the local fire department to the unfolding situation. The Blanket Fire Department had been the first to respond, quickly mobilizing their resources to the scene of the accident. With the SUV submerged in the creek, the race was on to rescue the trapped driver and provide the necessary medical attention.

Crews Arrive to Find Driver on the Bank

When the emergency crews arrived at the scene, they were met with a startling sight. The SUV had indeed gone off the bridge and into Blanket Creek, but the driver had managed to escape the vehicle and was now sitting on the bank, awaiting rescue. This was a promising sign, as it meant the driver had not been trapped inside the submerged vehicle, potentially reducing the severity of their injuries.

Air Evac Helicopter Called in for Assessment

Recognizing the need for immediate medical attention, the responders quickly called in an Air Evac helicopter to the scene. The helicopter's arrival allowed for a thorough assessment of the driver's condition, ensuring that they received the appropriate level of care and were transported to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.

Coordinated Effort Ensures Successful Rescue

The seamless coordination between the various emergency services, including the local fire department, the Air Evac helicopter, and any other supporting agencies, played a crucial role in the successful rescue operation. Their swift and efficient response likely saved the driver's life, demonstrating the importance of well-trained and prepared emergency teams in handling such high-stakes situations.

Aftermath and Investigation

While the immediate crisis has been averted, the authorities will now turn their attention to investigating the cause of the accident. They will examine the scene, gather witness statements, and review any available evidence to determine the factors that led to the SUV leaving the bridge and plunging into the creek. This information will be crucial in understanding how to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the continued safety of motorists on the region's roads.