In a harrowing event last Friday night, 20-year-old Alison Adams found herself trapped in her sinking car after severe flooding in Macomb Township. Adams was driving near 24 Mile Road and North Avenue when floodwaters from the Clinton River unexpectedly turned the road into a death trap. According to a FOX 2 Detroit interview, Adams said, "It was very scary. I thought I was drowning." She recounted how her vehicle lost all control, and she ultimately ended up in a flooded ditch.
Arriving in a timely manner, Macomb Township firefighters, donned in wetsuits, executed a successful rescue operation. As recounted by the Detroit News, the rescuers stretched out a 24-foot ladder against the tire of Adams' sinking car, providing her the means to escape. Adams expressed her thanks in a statement obtained by The Detroit News, "Thank you so much for the support and being able to get me out of what felt like drowning! I appreciate everyone who helped me."
Bob Phillips, Macomb Township Fire Chief, explained to WXYZ the perilous nature of such floodwater conditions, saying, "Six to 12 inches of water is all it takes to move a vehicle." He underscored the driver did the right thing by calling 911 immediately upon finding herself in distress. The flood was the result of the Clinton River's waters, which had swollen due to heavy rains prior to the incident.
Phillips also praised his team's efforts, mentioning in a statement obtained by WXYZ, "I'm proud of the guys who respond. They do a great job every day," emphasizing their swift action during critical moments. Despite the traumatic experience, Alison Adams escaped without injury, with her mother and boyfriend reaching the scene after her rescue, also crediting a stranger for stopping to help when disaster struck her car that was steadily sinking.
