By Suzie Ziegler
SALT LAKE CITY — A woman and four children found themselves upside down in a canal Saturday evening after their vehicle went into the water. Video shows the rescue efforts of police and fire personnel who worked to rescue two children still trapped inside.
According to a release from the Salt Lake City Police Department, the driver and two older children were able to escape the vehicle, but a 2-year-old and a 15-year-old remained trapped.
Responding officers quickly removed their belts and ran into the water as the car sank deeper.
“With no thought to personal safety, officers immediately stripped their gear and attempted a daring rescue of these two children,” said Police Chief Mike Brown. “It was dark. The water was cold. But these officers did not hesitate to come to the aid and work to save lives. I am proud of them.”
With the arrival of the Salt Lake City Fire Department, several firefighters dove into the river to help the rescue efforts. One firefighter used his SCBA to enter the vehicle and retrieve the 2-year-old, according to police.
“The immediate action of both SLCPD and SLCFD brought both children out of the water and to awaiting medical care,” said Fire Chief Karl Lieb. “Anything less would not have given these kids even a chance of survival. This is what we do. And I am exceedingly proud of our team’s commitment to preserving life – even at great risk to our own.”
According to KUTV, a 15-year-old boy died and the 2-year-old remains on life support.