Sweet Home, Ore. — Two off-duty firefighters from Crook County are being credited with saving a motorist’s life after a dramatic crash on Highway 20 near the Yukwah Campground on Saturday morning, Mar. 22nd.
The two firefighters—one from Crook County Fire & Rescue and the other from the Ochoco National Forest Service—happened upon the wreck just moments after the vehicle had plunged roughly 30 feet down an embankment and into the South Santiam River. The vehicle struck a tree before landing upright in chest-deep, frigid water, with the driver reportedly pinned inside as water rushed in.
According to a press release from the Sweet Home Fire District, initial reports indicated the vehicle’s occupant was trapped with water up to their head. Recognizing the imminent danger, the Crook County firefighters quickly sprang into action, using their training to free the victim and bring them to safety on shore—all before emergency crews could arrive.
“These individuals selflessly risked their own safety to prevent the victim from further harm, ensuring that the victim was not swept down the river and helping to prevent hypothermia from prolonged exposure to the frigid water.” Sweet Home Fire officials stated.
Emergency crews from Sweet Home Fire arrived shortly after and used a rope system to hoist the victim up the embankment and into a waiting ambulance. The individual, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
In addition to Sweet Home Fire, the response included the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Other agencies, including LifeFlight and multiple search and rescue teams, were dispatched but canceled before arrival.
Though officials generally caution against untrained bystanders intervening in dangerous situations, they praised the Crook County responders’ expertise and timing.
The names of the firefighters have not yet been released.
Following initial publication, Crook County Fire & Rescue (CCFR) Chief Matt Smith responded to an early morning request for comment.
“I am incredibly proud to hear that one of our responders while off duty was there to help. It is a great example of the type of people who are part of our organization. They are courageous folks who are willing to help at any time with only a moment’s notice,” said Smith when speaking to the Prineville Review late Monday morning.
Ochoco National Forest also confirmed the other firefighter was employed by the agency.
“The Ochoco National Forest is incredibly proud of our employee who responded without hesitation to help save a life. The Forest asks that you respect his decision to remain anonymous. His actions reflect the commitment to service that defines the employees of the Forest Service—on duty and off. His selflessness and courage are a powerful example of the values held by public servants,” wrote Isabella Isaksen for the U.S. Forest Service.
Note: This story was updated after initial publication to include statements from the agencies who employ the firefighters.
