Cottage Grove, OR – A driver was rescued late Friday night after allegedly crashing a vehicle into Cottage Grove Lake and being found unconscious onshore, according to local authorities.
According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a possible crash around 10 p.m. Friday near London Road, south of Cottage Grove. Although no vehicle was immediately visible, deputies found evidence indicating a collision had occurred.
Lane County Search & Rescue’s Dive Team was dispatched to the scene and began searching the lake in the dark. After roughly an hour of methodical searching, the team located a fully submerged vehicle in the water, unoccupied. Continuing their efforts, the team found the driver unconscious but otherwise unharmed onshore.
Deputies reported the driver had allegedly fallen asleep at the wheel, leading to the crash. The driver was safely returned home, and a towing company assisted with removing the vehicle from the lake.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office noted that their Search & Rescue volunteers respond to incidents in a variety of challenging conditions throughout the year. More information on their work, or how to donate, can be found on the county’s official website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
