Bystander Saves Driver After Car Plunges Into Naperville Pond: Plainfield Fire Dept

NAPERVILLE, IL — The driver of a car that dove into a pond Wednesday was safely rescued with the help of a landscaper working nearby, who jumped at the chance to help, according to Plainfield Fire Chief Vito Bonomo.

The vehicle was submerged in the pond near the intersection of Royal Worlington Drive and Route 59 after a crash caused it to veer off the road, according to a news release.

Plainfield firefighters coordinated with the Naperville Fire Department to respond to the call at 9:58 a.m. Wednesday. The car was immersed in about six feet of water, and the driver, who was unable to swim, was trapped inside.

When crews arrived, a bystander was in the water with the driver, holding the person's head above water until emergency responders arrived. Officials said a landscaper who was working near the pond sprang to the rescue after witnessing the car go into the pond.

Both the driver and bystander were evaluated on the scene by paramedics, but declined a trip to the hospital. Officials said Plainfield divers helped the towing company safely recover the car from the water.

"The Plainfield Fire Protection District commends the quick actions of the bystander, whose efforts played a vital role in ensuring the driver's safety prior to the arrival of emergency personnel," Bonomo wrote in the release.