Browse
Log in / Register
Share
Pooler, GA – April 8, 2025 – A dramatic rescue unfolded early Tuesday morning when Pooler fire crews pulled a motorist from a vehicle that was rapidly sinking into a retention pond. The quick actions of first responders prevented what could have been a fatal outcome.
The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. near the intersection of Godley Avenue and Jimmy DeLoach Parkway, where a sedan veered off the road and plunged into a man-made pond. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find the car almost completely submerged, with only the roof visible above the waterline.
“The driver was conscious and alert, but the vehicle was filling with water quickly,” said Battalion Chief James Whitaker of the Pooler Fire Department. “Our team immediately entered the water, forced open the door, and extracted the victim in under two minutes.”
The driver, later identified as 42-year-old Marcus Thompson of Savannah, was treated for minor injuries at the scene and transported to Memorial Health University Medical Center for observation. Officials said Thompson was not under the influence and was wearing his seatbelt, which likely contributed to his survival.
The rescue marks the third water-related vehicle incident in the Savannah metropolitan area this year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 400 people die annually in the U.S. from vehicle submersion accidents. Experts emphasize that the first few seconds after a car enters water are critical.
“Most people panic and try to open the door, but water pressure pins it shut,” said Dr. Laura Hamilton, a water safety researcher at Georgia Southern University. “The best advice is to remain calm, unbuckle, lower the window, and climb out before the car sinks.”
Pooler Fire Department has since conducted a review of the response and confirmed that all equipment performed as expected. The department is also planning to release a public service video next week highlighting water escape techniques.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Pooler Police Department. Witnesses reported that the driver appeared to be swerving to avoid debris before losing control. The retention pond, part of the nearby commercial development, is now being inspected for barrier improvements.
Local residents expressed relief that the story ended without tragedy. “I saw the commotion from my front porch,” said Linda Bates, who lives across the street. “Thank God the firefighters were so fast.”
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by retention ponds and drainage canals along Georgia roadways. In 2023, the Georgia Department of Transportation installed warning signs at 22 high-risk pond locations, but officials say more can be done.
“We’re looking at this as a learning opportunity,” added Chief Whitaker. “Every rescue teaches us something new about how to save lives even faster.”
As Thompson recovers, he is expected to speak with firefighters later this week to thank them personally. The department plans to share their experience at the next county safety training session.
Key Takeaways for Drivers:
For more information on water survival techniques, visit the Georgia Department of Public Safety website.
