Tampa, FL – A driver was pulled from a sinking vehicle late Sunday after deputies rushed into a retention pond to save her in Hillsborough County.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the rescue unfolded Sunday just after 9 p.m. near the intersection of 70th Street and Hartford Street in Tampa. Authorities said a woman allegedly lost control of her vehicle before it left the roadway and plunged into a retention pond, trapping her inside as water quickly filled the car.
Deputies reportedly arrived within minutes of the emergency call and allegedly entered the water immediately to reach the submerged vehicle. Investigators said deputies broke through a window and repeatedly worked to pull the driver free before bringing her safely to shore.
Officials said the woman sustained minor injuries during the incident. Emergency crews evaluated her at the scene following the rescue.
Sheriff Chad Chronister praised the deputies’ actions in a statement following the rescue.
“Our deputies did not hesitate when seconds mattered most,” Chronister said. “Their quick, decisive actions saved this woman’s life. This is exactly what #teamHCSO is trained to do, step in during critical moments and protect our community.”
Authorities said the agency’s dive team later responded to the scene to recover the submerged vehicle from the retention pond.
Officials have not released the identity of the driver, and it remains unclear what caused the vehicle to allegedly leave the roadway. The incident remains under review by investigators.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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