Two Florida teenagers found themselves in a terrifying situation when their vehicle plunged into a body of water. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of quick thinking and bravery in the face of danger.

In St. Augustine, Teenagers' Lives Hinged on a Split Second Decision

Initial Call for Help

On a Saturday in St. Augustine, two 18-year-old girls found themselves trapped inside a vehicle that had veered off the roadway and into the water along Holmes Boulevard. In the 911 call, the girls' voices filled with panic as one exclaimed, "We just crashed into the water." The urgency in their words was palpable as they awaited rescue. Public Safety telecommunicators worked hard to keep the girls calm while their vehicle slowly filled with water and began to sink.

As the water started to invade the car, one girl could be heard begging, "There’s water coming into the car. Please hurry up, there’s water coming in the car." The fear in her voice was evident, but she remained composed enough to provide crucial information about their location.

First Responders on the Scene

Video from the scene showed a half-submerged white car, a haunting sight that captured the gravity of the situation. A deputy could be heard instructing the girls inside to climb out of the window and asking if they could swim. As the car continued to sink, first responders urged the girls to get off the car and kick their feet to swim towards them. Their quick actions and clear instructions were crucial in ensuring the girls' safety.

The teens were eventually taken to an area hospital as a precaution. This act of caution demonstrated the concern and care of the emergency services. The St. John’s County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team also played a vital role by assisting a local wrecker service in recovering the submerged vehicle. Officials suspect that exhaustion may have contributed to the incident, highlighting the need for rest and vigilance on the road.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and aware of our surroundings. It also showcases the heroic efforts of first responders and the community in coming together to support those in need. The story of these two teenagers' rescue is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.