CHILLICOTHE, Ohio, — Quick action by two Ross County deputies turned a life-threatening situation into a heroic rescue Saturday night when they saved a man trapped in a submerged vehicle in frigid waters.
Deputy Jacob JoHansen responded to a dispatch call about a vehicle submerged in a creek with the driver unable to escape. Upon arriving at the scene, witnesses informed the deputy that the driver had driven into the creek and was trapped inside the vehicle as the freezing water made self-rescue impossible.
Deputy JoHansen immediately sprang into action, securing a throw bag and rope provided by the responding unit, Deputy Knox. Braving the icy conditions, JoHansen entered the water and reached the trapped driver, tying the rope around him to ensure a safe extraction. Working together, Deputy Knox, JoHansen, and several bystanders pulled the man to safety onshore.
The rescued man was transported to Adena Medical Center for treatment of hypothermia and later flown to Grant Medical Center for further care. Deputy JoHansen, who was exposed to the frigid water during the rescue, was also treated for exposure at Adena Medical Center.
The deputies’ courage and response likely saved the driver’s life, highlighting their dedication to serving and protecting their community under challenging conditions. The Ross County Sheriff’s Office has yet to publicly commend their actions.