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A Coral Springs police officer is making headlines after he rescued two individuals from a submerged car that had crashed into a canal in Margate, Broward County, on March 21.
The incident, which could have ended in tragedy, saw the driver suffer a medical episode, leading to the vehicle’s acceleration and eventual sinking in the canal that borders Margate and Coral Springs.
When the emergency call went out, Coral Springs officers were nearby and the first on the scene. Officer Christopher Moss did not hesitate, as he dove into the water to assist the occupants trapped inside the half-submerged vehicle. His actions were captured on bodycam footage, which was later shared by the Coral Springs Police Department (CSPD) on social media.
“Upon arrival, I could hear two occupants within the vehicle banging on the glass and yelling for help,” Moss recounted during a press briefing.
He explained how he removed his shirt and gear and entered the water to reach the sinking car. Finding the doors locked, Moss managed to shatter the vehicle’s windows, allowing him to free the man and woman inside. One of them was able to swim to safety, while the other, unable to swim, was in imminent danger as the vehicle continued to sink.
“The vehicle started to submerge even more. I advised the individual to trust me,” Moss shared.
Their rescue was not without its challenges, as Moss admitted the greatest concern was the possibility of the non-swimmer’s panic causing further complications. However, his determination ensured that both individuals were rescued without serious injury. One of the victims did sustain minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Coral Springs Police Chief Brad McKeone praised Moss for his heroic actions.
“I want to thank everybody for their job. I want to thank Chris for his job for saving two lives,” McKeone said.
Moss, who has been with the department for eight years, spoke on the importance of decision-making in such critical moments and expressed his relief that the situation ended safely for everyone involved.
Both the driver and the passenger have since recovered from the incident, with the local community and the police force celebrating the positive outcome of what could have been a fatal accident.
“I couldn’t be more proud of the actions of Officer Moss and the other officers on scene and the fire department that was also there,” McKeone concluded.
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