SPANISH FORK, Utah, Jan. 11, 2025 (Gephardt Daily) — First responders were dispatched Friday night to the intersection of Arrowhead Trail and Main street on reports of a single-vehicle rollover into the Spanish Fork River.
The call was dispatched at 8:06 p.m., and while Spanish Fork Police, Fire & EMS crews were en route, “two courageous bystanders entered the freezing waters and successfully pulled the driver to shore,” a statement from Spanish Fork City says. “The patient was treated on the scene and transported to a local hospital in stable condition.”
Due to mid-level river flows and hazardous materials, including fuel leaking from the vehicle into the waterway, the Utah Valley Special Response Team (UVSRT) was activated to assist with mitigation efforts,” the City’s statement says.
“UVSRT responders from American Fork Fire & Rescue, Lehi Fire Department, and Provo Fire Department provided expertise in managing the incident. This specialized team handles technical rescue scenarios across Utah County, including swift water and hazardous materials incidents.”
The Utah County Department of Health, Central Utah Water Conservancy District, and Strawberry Water Association were promptly notified. Officials have confirmed that there are no public safety concerns stemming from this incident.
Chief Eddie Hales expressed gratitude to the bystanders who risked their lives to save another.
“We are deeply appreciative of the bravery displayed by these individuals. However, we want to remind the public of the significant dangers posed by freezing water and unknown conditions. Personal safety should always be your top priority.”
Hales also thanked mutual aid partners for their swift response and professionalism.
The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by the Spanish Fork Police Department.
