Reporter and Bystander Rescue Driver Before Car Sinks in Queensland Floodwater

An Australian television journalist and a bystander rescued a driver from a sinking car after it entered deep floodwater in Morayfield, Queensland, Reuters and BBC News reported.

Will Murray, a reporter for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, was covering flooding when he saw the vehicle drive into the water. Both outlets reported that he and another person went to the driver’s aid as the vehicle sank.

Reuters identified the bystander as Daniel Hainey and reported that the rescue took place on October 22, north of Brisbane.

According to Reuters, the four-wheel drive stalled after entering the floodwater and began sinking. Murray and Hainey swam to the vehicle and pulled the driver out moments before it became completely submerged.

BBC News reported that Murray saw the vehicle pass him before entering the water. He told the broadcaster that, once he realised how quickly it was sinking, he acted without pausing because the driver risked drowning.

Speaking to Reuters the following day, Murray described the fear of watching someone in danger of drowning and the relief he felt after the rescue.

He said he and the driver embraced once the man was safely out of the vehicle, describing that moment as among the most meaningful of his life, Reuters reported. Murray had not obtained the survivor’s name or telephone number but said he hoped he was doing well.

The rescue occurred during widespread disruption from flash flooding in south-east Queensland. Reuters reported that emergency services answered hundreds of distress calls on Thursday and Friday after more than 200 millimetres of rain.

Roads and schools were closed during the flooding, according to Reuters.

Sources

• Australian TV reporter recalls 'terrifying' rescue of man from sinking car
• Moment man rescued from sinking car by Australian TV reporter