Durham deputy rescues woman, child from rain-swollen creek

A man, woman and an 11-year-old boy were driving northbound in the 5200 block of South Alston Avenue when the man driving lost control of the vehicle, struck a culvert and plunged into a creek below the road, authorities said.

The driver was able to free himself, but the woman, who was unconscious, and the boy were trapped in the vehicle.

Deputy I. Cantrell said he jumped into the water to assist the Durham Fire Department in rescuing the woman and boy.

"He seemed kind of shocked at the time. I asked if he was OK and he said he was alright and that he was bleeding a lot," Cantrell said. "There was a large cut above his eye."

After freeing the boy, he was able to successfully help the mother from the car.

"Once we got the kid out and we were back in there trying to help the lady in the front seat, it became apparent that the water was picking up speed," he said.

Cantrell said by the time the tow truck arrived, the car was fully submerged.

Looking back, Cantrell said he never felt fear while helping save the passengers.

"Just something I hope people would do for me if I were in the same situation," Cantrell said.

None of the occupants of the vehicle were identified.