In a dramatic rescue in Pompano Beach, Broward County deputies and an off-duty firefighter saved a woman from her sinking vehicle in a canal. The incident occurred on May 1 near the Palm Aire Country Club, where the vehicle ended up in the water along S. Palm Aire Drive.
Quick Response by Local Heroes
The Broward Sheriff’s Office released body camera footage showing the swift actions of BSO Det. Robert Rutkowski, BSO Dep. Zachary Kerin, and Fort Lauderdale Fire Capt. Keith Costa. These first responders were the first to arrive at the scene and immediately jumped into the canal to reach the driver trapped inside the sinking car.
According to Det. Rutkowski, they had only about a minute before the vehicle was fully submerged. The video captures the tense moments as the woman was pulled from the vehicle, with deputies on the shore assisting in bringing her and the rescuers to safety. Shortly after, the vehicle disappeared beneath the water.
Injuries and Commendations
During the rescue, Dep. Kerin sustained a minor hand injury while breaking the car’s window to free the driver. The quick and brave actions of these local heroes were praised by BSO Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony, who emphasized the critical difference their actions made between tragedy and survival.
This incident underscores the vital role of local first responders in ensuring community safety and the importance of their readiness to act in life-threatening situations.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
