Two quick-thinking bystanders are being hailed as heroes after rescuing a ride-share driver whose car accidentally drove into Morgan Creek during a heavy rainstorm in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, on Saturday night.
The Accident
According to the Isle of Palms Police Department, the incident happened just after 9 p.m. at the Isle of Palms Marina near Charleston.
The driver, whose name has not been released, reportedly confused the boat ramp for the parking lot roadway after heavy rain reduced visibility.
The vehicle slid down the ramp and plunged into the creek, quickly beginning to sink.
The Rescue
Two civilians attending a large gathering at the marina witnessed the terrifying moment.
One man jumped over a railing into the water.
Another ran down the boat ramp to wade into the creek.
Together, they pulled the driver from the car just before it went fully underwater, according to security camera footage released by police.
The driver was transported to a local hospital and treated for minor injuries.
Police Praise
In a social media statement, the Isle of Palms Police Department expressed gratitude:
“We are extremely grateful to the two men who acted quickly and heroically to save a life in need.”
Police Chief Kevin Cornett also highlighted the dangers of storm-related driving:
“This incident underscores the dangers of driving during severe weather conditions, particularly at night. Water can quickly obscure where the roadway ends and make it difficult to gauge depths.”
Safety Reminder
Officials are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution in heavy rain and flooding, especially near waterfront areas where visibility is compromised and roadways may appear continuous with ramps or docks.
