For Immediate Release:
June 20, 2013
Release ID: 13-024
Contact: Scott Graham, Public Information Office
(240) 876-1260 Phone
(240) 777-2442 Media Line
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Gaithersburg - - On June 10, 2013 at 6:30 p.m., Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) units were dispatched to West Old Baltimore Road, in the area of the 10 Mile Creek fjord, for a possible car in flood waters with a report of persons trapped in the vehicle. AT735, a 100’ Aerial Platform, proceeded toward the fjord and came upon the victims. They advised there were no more persons in the reported stranded vehicle. AT735 proceeded toward the creek to confirm that all victims had self rescued. They confirmed that there were no persons in the vehicle and the crew proceeded to drive across the fjord. The Aerial Platform became stranded. The crew attempted to free the truck but was unsuccessful. The crew ultimately had to abandon the truck due to rapidly rising water and concern for their own personal safety. The truck was towed out of the fjord and returned to the MCFRS Fleet Section for inspection and repairs. 

 

The driver and officer have been placed on routine administrative leave with pay pending an internal investigation. There were no injuries as a result of the incident.