MITCHELL – Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department deputies and Marion Township Volunteer Fire Department responded to the bridge on Lawrenceport Road at 3:12 p.m. after a report of a man’s vehicle stuck in floodwaters.
The man reported the water reached to the level of his car seats.
According to Marion Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Paul Gillespie, when Engine 52 and Squad 55 arrived the five first responders found the elderly man was out of his Ford Focus.
“The elderly man had driven into the floodwaters between Water Street and Gresham Road,” added Chief Gillespie. “We were less than a minute from the scene when dispatch advised the occupant was out of the vehicle, out of the floodwater and speaking to ambulance personnel.”
The man was not injured.
“Highwater signs were posted and visible,” added Chief Gillespie.
Gillespie stressed the importance of – Turning Around Don’t Drown.
“It is very important for people to pay attention to high water signs and barricades,” he added “.I have personally been on four water rescues in that same area, two at that same location. My advice is – If you are looking at the water over the road and thinking “I can probably make it”… You can’t, turn around and find a different route. Enjoy a nice calming extended ride through the beautiful countryside. It is not worth your vehicle or your life to save a few minutes of drive time”
