Deputy saves pregnant woman from runaway car headed for lake

In the early hours of December 2, 2024, a pregnant woman in Williamson County, Illinois, faced a life-threatening situation when her vehicle's brakes failed, causing her car to speed uncontrollably on a rural road towards Crab Orchard Lake. In a frantic 911 call, the woman expressed her fear of dying, stating that she was 20 weeks pregnant and pleading for assistance as her car approached the water at approximately 30 miles per hour. Her desperate situation prompted quick action from the Williamson County Sheriff's Office, where dispatchers coordinated with deputies to intercept the vehicle before it could plunge into the lake. Deputy Tyler Coffey led the response by employing a rolling roadblock maneuver. He strategically positioned his patrol car in front of the speeding vehicle, allowing for a controlled collision. This technique was pivotal in slowing the woman's car down until it came to a complete stop. Although the rear of the patrol vehicle made contact with the front bumper of her car, the collision resulted in only minor damage to both vehicles, a fortunate outcome for all parties involved. Once stopped, deputies swiftly exited their vehicle to ensure the woman was safe and that her car was secure. The successful rescue was captured on the deputy's dashcam and showcased the collaborative efforts of emergency services and determined bystanders. Despite the chaos, the deputies' quick thinking prevented a potentially tragic outcome. The woman and her dog, who was also in the car, emerged unharmed after the incident, which could have resulted in severe injury or fatality had no intervention occurred. Deputy Coffey expressed gratitude for the teamwork that made the quick rescue possible and highlighted that heroism extended beyond his actions, involving the dispatchers and other deputies as well. The incident underscored the critical importance of quick response times in emergencies involving vulnerable individuals, particularly pregnant women. This event is a stark reminder of the potential hazards that can arise on the road, particularly under challenging conditions. The authorities involved emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of community members in distress while also acknowledging the need for continuous public awareness regarding vehicle maintenance and emergency preparedness on the road.