The Lakeville Fire Department responded to a dramatic single-vehicle crash on Route 79 near Galfre Road at approximately 8:30 a.m. this morning. The incident occurred when a pickup truck left the roadway and came to rest precariously over a stream connected to a cranberry bog pond, creating a dangerous situation for the vehicle’s sole occupant.
Firefighters quickly arrived on scene and initiated an extrication operation to ensure the driver’s safety. Due to the truck’s position above the fast-moving water, crews had to improvise, using a ladder to create a makeshift bridge over the stream. Firefighters and police personnel worked together to carefully escort the driver across the ladder, avoiding any risk of falling into the water below.
Once safely on solid ground, the driver was evaluated by responding firefighters for injuries. Thankfully, the individual refused transport to the hospital after assessment, despite the precarious nature of the crash and potential hazards.
The rescue operation presented unique challenges, as all on-duty fire staff were already committed to a separate medical emergency elsewhere in town. Fire Chief O’Brien personally responded in Ambulance 3, and a staffing recall was issued to bring in additional personnel to handle the situation safely and efficiently.
Authorities praised the coordinated efforts of both fire and police personnel, emphasizing the skill, quick thinking, and teamwork required to safely extricate the driver from such a hazardous position.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, though officials urge drivers to exercise caution on rural roads, particularly near waterways and bogs, which can pose unexpected hazards.
