Bodycam Video Shows Officers Rescuing Pregnant Woman from Overturned Car in Melbourne-Area Canal
Dramatic Rescue Caught on Camera
Palm Bay, Fla. (WSVN) — Dramatic body camera video captured the moment officers rushed to save a pregnant woman who was trapped inside a partially submerged car in Brevard County.
Audio from the Bodycam Video
Audio from the bodycam video captured the victim’s cries as she was helped out of a canal in Palm Bay by officers who led her to the safety of the shore.
Officer’s Quick Response
Palm Bay Police officers responded to reports of downed power lines on Dec. 26 when they heard banging coming from the canal and found the woman’s vehicle upside down in the water.
Former Sheriff’s Detective Weighs In
Former sheriff’s detective and investigator Jamie Copenhaver said he knows exactly what was going through these officers’ minds.
“They didn’t think. They literally went into a life-saving mode for this young pregnant woman,” he said.
Bodycam Footage Shows Rescue Efforts
Body cameras show one officer grabbing a baseball bat from his patrol car and running to the water. Moments later, officers pulled the pregnant woman from what appears to be the back of the vehicle.
Expert Advice for Car Accident Victims
Copenhaver advises anyone who finds themselves in a sinking car to remain calm and unbuckle their seat belt, because a buckle may be used to break out the window. Passengers may also use a head rest, a screwdriver or a pocket knife.
“If that buckle doesn’t work, and you can’t negotiate your way out of the car, for goodness’ sake, use your feet and kick that car window, door window out,” he said.
Staying Calm and Working Quickly
Officials stress to stay calm, and work quickly and efficiently to make sure crash victims are able to get out in a situation where time is of the essence.
Advice for Witnesses
As for witnesses who come across a vehicle sinking in water, Copenhaver advises to call 911, keep an eye on the car and help anyone inside if it’s safe to do so.
Conclusion
The dramatic rescue caught on bodycam video serves as a reminder of the importance of staying calm and working quickly in emergency situations. The officers’ quick response and expertise likely saved the life of the pregnant woman, and their actions are a testament to their training and dedication to serving their community.
FAQs
Q: What should I do if I find myself in a sinking car?
A: Remain calm, unbuckle your seat belt, and try to break out a window using a buckle, head rest, screwdriver, or pocket knife. If that doesn’t work, use your feet to kick out the window.
Q: What should I do if I witness a vehicle sinking in water?
A: Call 911, keep an eye on the car, and help anyone inside if it’s safe to do so.
Q: How can I stay safe in a car accident?
A: Stay calm, work quickly, and follow the advice of emergency responders.
