Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Monday, May 8, 2017
(JACKSON CO.) - Just before 3 p.m. on Sunday, an Indiana State Trooper and members from three additional agencies worked together to rescue a Bloomington man was trapped in his vehicle after being swept away by flood waters.
68-year-old Alexander Ferenczy III initially called 911 to report that his vehicle has stalled in flood waters on County Road 50 North near County Road 950 East in eastern Jackson County.
ISP Trooper Christopher Lockman, along with officers from the Jackson County Sheriff's Department, Crothersville Police Department, and the Indiana Conservation Officers responded to assist.
By time rescuers could arrive, Ferenczy's 2015 Ford van had been swept off the roadway by the water.
Trp. Lockman, who is a member of the Indiana State Police Department's Underwater Search and Recovery Team, determined that a water rescue was necessary prior to a rescue boat arriving due to the water rising on the vehicle. He donned his swiftwater rescue gear and entered the water while connected to a line that was being manned by the other officers on scene.
Trp. Lockman was able to successfully reach the vehicle that was located approximately 300 feet from dry land.
He was able to attach a personal flotation device to Ferenczy and conducted a water rescue carry because Ferenczy was not able to walk due to a prior medical condition.
Trp. Lockman, as well as the other officers, removed Ferenczy from the water and began administering first aid. Ferenczy was then transported to Schneck Medical Center by Jackson County EMS for further evaluation.
Trp. Lockman was assisted by Deputy Rob Henley, Reserve Deputies Charlie Murphy and Greg Murphy, Jackson County Sheriff's Department, Officer J L McElfresh, Crothersville Police Department, and Conservation Officer Blake Everhart.
The Indiana State Police would like to remind people to avoid driving on roadways that are covered by water. A small amount of moving water is capable of sweeping a heavy vehicle off the roadway. "Turn Around, Don't Drown"
1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com
© Ad-Venture Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.