Grant County, NM – A New Mexico State Police officer rescued a woman, her young child and a dog from an overturned vehicle caught in swift floodwaters Monday afternoon in Grant County.
According to the New Mexico State Police, Officer Walker Eby responded around 3:09 p.m. to Stephens Road near Buckhorn, where a vehicle had overturned on its side due to rising floodwaters. Inside, he found a woman, her six-year-old child, and their dog trapped as water surged around them.
Authorities said Officer Eby, working with the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the Cliff Volunteer Fire Department and local residents, devised a rescue plan to stabilize the vehicle using a backhoe. A ladder was extended across the rushing waters to give rescuers access.
Eby removed his police gear, crossed the ladder, and first carried the child to safety on his back. He then returned to secure the woman with a safety rope before guiding her across. Finally, using a safety line, he retrieved the family’s dog from the top of the vehicle.
Patrolman Eby’s quick actions, along with the assistance of local residents and first responders, were credited with preventing tragedy. Authorities said the combined effort highlighted the importance of community cooperation during dangerous flood conditions.
Flooding has repeatedly threatened rural parts of Grant County this summer, forcing law enforcement and emergency crews to respond to swift-water rescues. Officials urged drivers to avoid attempting to cross flooded roadways, noting that vehicles can quickly be swept away.
“This coordinated effort exemplifies the spirit of community and working together for the safety of one another,” the agency said in a statement.
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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