In what reads like a scene straight out of an action movie, a San Bernardino Sheriff's Sergeant took a life-saving plunge into Big Bear Lake last Saturday night. Sergeant K. Winegar witnessed a vehicle lose its battle with gravity and sink beneath the lake's dark waters, with a woman trapped inside. A spokesperson for the department stated, "Without hesitation, Winegar went into the lake, was able to free the passenger and assist her to safety."
The dramatic rescue unfolded around 11:08 p.m. after deputies received reports of the submerged vehicle. Swiftly assessing the dire situation, Winegar, diving into the frigid waters, reached the vehicle where the driver had managed to escape, but a passenger remained imprisoned. Witnesses described Sergeant Winegar's quick actions, watching his figure cut through the shadows, becoming a lifeline for the desperate passenger.
Once on land, the victim, whose identity remains confidential, was greeted by first responders and quickly transported to a local hospital. The extent of her injuries, sustained from the collision, has not been fully disclosed.
As an investigation into the harrowing incident continues, Deputy R. Wilson of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Big Bear Station urges anyone with information to step forward. A report from the official sheriff-coroner department's release suggests contacting Deputy Wilson directly or offering anonymous tips via We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME.
While the lake has returned to its placid state since the incident, the echoes of bravery from that tumultuous night continue to resonate. San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Shannon D. Dicus praises the courage and swift action of Sgt. Winegar, a sentiment certainly shared by the saved woman and her loved ones.
