According to a report from ABC7, a member of the Bradley (IL) Fire Department (BFD) is being recognized for his quick-thinking actions after he jumped into a pond to rescue a driver who was submerged in the vehicle after a crash.
BFD member Kyle Haemker was driving home from a shift just before 1 p.m. Wednesday when he heard reports of the crash into the pond near the intersection of Village Woods and Route 394.
On arrival, a citizen told him someone was inside the vehicle, which was already fully submerged in water.
Haemker then leapt into the water; entered the vehicle; removed the victim’s seat belt; and, with help from a Crete Township ambulance crew, moved the driver safely to shore.
The victim expressed their gratitude, thanking Haemker for his quick actions, which ultimately saved the driver’s life, the BFD said.
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