North Port, Fla. – Early Saturday afternoon, a Walmart grounds crew was mowing the grassy area alongside the store’s parking lot on Tamiami Trail when a driver lost control, smashed through a chain‑link fence and slid into the adjacent North Port creek.
Fire Rescue Lieutenant Raymond Coyle described the scene: “They had to don life‑vest PPE and swim over to the car. They were able to remove the two passengers out of a window.” The two women inside the vehicle were rescued without serious injury, though their identities and medical conditions have not been released.
Grounds crew steps in
According to Coyle, the Walmart employees were the first on the scene after the crash. They immediately called 911 and then began cutting down trees and vegetation that were obstructing access to the submerged vehicle. “They didn’t hesitate,” Coyle said. “They saw the need and went straight into action.”
One crew member recounted that the car struck a fence that had been installed to protect the creek’s banks. The impact forced the vehicle beneath the fence and into the water, making it difficult for first responders to locate the wreckage. The Walmart team’s familiarity with the area allowed them to locate the car quickly, dive under the fence and assist the fire department in extracting the occupants.
Community response
Local residents who witnessed the rescue praised the crew’s willingness to help. “It’s amazing to see fellow community members step up in a crisis,” said a bystander who asked to remain anonymous. “Their quick action likely saved lives.”
Coyle added that the crew’s presence was a fortunate coincidence. “They were just literally in the right place at the right time. They were mowing that grass field right next to where the vehicle entered the water.” He expects the fire department will formally recognize the crew’s effort in an upcoming ceremony.
Investigation continues
Authorities have not yet determined why the driver veered off the road. The crash investigation remains open, and officials have not disclosed any further details about the vehicle or road conditions at the time of the incident.
The incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and the role that everyday workers can play in emergency situations. When ordinary citizens act with courage and follow proper safety protocols, they become an extension of public‑safety services, reinforcing the fabric of a close‑knit neighborhood.
North Port Fire Rescue will continue to monitor the condition of the two women and will release additional information as it becomes available.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
