In a daring rescue that sounds straight out of a Hollywood film, five quick-thinking University of Georgia students have been hailed as heroes after they saved three lives—including two children—from a sinking SUV in a creek off Ellison Bridge Road, authorities said.
The students were on their way from Athens to Savannah on Saturday when they witnessed an SUV inexplicably veer off the road and into a creek. Without hesitation, these young women sprang into action, braving the waters to save an adult and two kids trapped inside the vehicle. FOX 5 Atlanta reports that the Burke County Sheriff's Office commended the quintet for their quick thinking and bravery.
According to the WSBTV, the students identified as Jane McArdle, Molly McCollum, Eleanor Cart, Clarke Jones, and Kaitlyn Iannace, made a split-second decision to turn around, head to the crash site, and dive into the water to rescue the stricken passengers. “These five young ladies were the primary factor in ensuring that the occupants were able to get out of and on top of the vehicle," a spokesperson for the Sheriff's Office stated.
Authorities arrived shortly after and assisted the students and the victims out of the water. All three occupants of the car were alert, conscious, and breathing as medical aid was administered at the scene. The Sheriff's Office gave a "heartfelt shout out" to the students for their admirable actions, underscoring that they were grateful the students were in the right place at the right time.
Adding to the accolades, the Sheriff's Office acknowledged the collaboration between local services. "Great work by everyone involved. Sardis Police Department, Burke County EMA - GA and Burke County Georgia 911. We make an a great team,” the Sheriff's Office said in a statement. As of now, the cause of the accident remains unclear, but what's evident is the courage and fortitude displayed by these five young adults in the face of adversity.
