The last thing a Walmart grounds crew expected during their shift was to go from maintaining the property to helping save two lives after witnessing a car plunge into a pond in North Port, Florida.
With the vehicle hidden behind vegetation and beginning to sink, the workers called 911, started clearing a path for firefighters and, according to one crew member, entered the water themselves.
The Walmart Facility Services crew was working nearby when the car went through a fence in the 17000 block of Tamiami Trail and entered a pond.
Recognizing the danger, the workers began cutting through trees and thick brush to create access for North Port Fire Rescue. The crew’s presence proved particularly important because the vehicle was difficult to see from the surrounding area. North Port Fire Rescue said there were no obvious tire marks and the car had traveled underneath the fence.
Two Women Trapped as Car Sinks
Two elderly women were trapped inside the vehicle as water continued rising around them, with the cause of the crash not being publicly confirmed.
North Port Fire Rescue Stations 81 and 82 responded alongside North Port Police. Firefighters put on life vests and swam out to the vehicle before removing both women through a window.
By then, the water had risen to around dashboard level. Thankfully, North Port Fire Rescue said neither woman was injured despite the scary circumstances.
North Port Fire Rescue Lt. Raymond Coyle emphasized how fortunate it was that the Walmart crew witnessed the crash.
“They were just literally in the right place at the right time,” Coyle told FOX 13 News.
“I know everybody always says that, but thankfully, they were mowing that grass field right next to where the vehicle entered under it.
“Actually, went underneath a chain-like fence when it hit the vehicle. Basically dove under the fence and down into the vegetation. You couldn’t see it.”
Coyle said he expects the workers will be deservedly recognized by the fire department for their actions.
Their intervention also showed how quickly an ordinary workday can become an emergency, with the crew’s decision to call 911 and clear an access route giving firefighters valuable help when time mattered.
Crew Member Describes Rescue
One person identifying himself as a member of the crew offered additional details in a Facebook comment.
He said 10 Facility Services associates were at the scene and claimed that he and two coworkers swam toward the sinking vehicle before firefighters arrived.
The worker also praised North Port firefighters for entering the water immediately after reaching the scene, describing their dedication as “unmatched.”
Social Media Praises Workers and Firefighters
The outcome could have been very different without the quick response of everyone involved. From the Walmart crew recognizing the danger and clearing a path to the firefighters entering the water and pulling both women to safety, the rescue showed how decisive action and teamwork can make all the difference when every second counts.
“It’s amazing, you have your fellow community members out here willing to put in an effort to aid you in your time of need; it speaks for itself,” Coyle added.
“They saw someone who needed help, didn’t hesitate to take action. I commend them; it’s amazing. I’m super proud that they did that. I’m sure they are as well.”
The rescue generated widespread praise on Facebook, particularly for the Walmart crew’s quick response.
One witness described the landscaping crew as “phenomenal” and said workers used chainsaws to cut through thick vegetation.
Another commenter called them “superheroes without capes,” while others praised the teamwork between the grounds crew, North Port Fire Rescue and North Port Police. It’s a fitting synopsis of the story.