Off-Duty Firefighters Rescue 3 After Car Plunges ’15-20 Feet’ Upside-Down into Water, Saving Them from ‘Mortal Danger’

Off-duty firefighters in Gloucester, Massachusetts, are being hailed as heroes after successfully rescuing three individuals from a car that plunged into the water at St. Peter’s Park on the morning of May 18, 2025. Deputy Chief Andrew McRobb and Lt. William Doucette, who were off-duty at the time, witnessed the harrowing incident and sprang into action, displaying extraordinary bravery and quick thinking that ultimately saved lives.

Doucette wasted no time in diving into the water to aid the crew members of a local lobster boat in breaking one of the vehicle’s windows with a hammer, allowing the occupants to escape. The surrounding bystanders also played a crucial role in the rescue effort, working alongside the firefighters to safely extract all three individuals from the overturned vehicle. Despite the significant risks involved, Doucette, McRobb, and the bystanders managed to keep the victims afloat until emergency responders arrived on the scene.

Following the rescue, the victims, who remained conscious and alert, were promptly transported to a hospital to receive medical attention for their injuries. Doucette, who sustained minor injuries during the operation, was also taken for evaluation. Gloucester Fire Deputy Chief Tom LoGrande commended Doucette’s selfless act, emphasising that the outcome could have been tragic if not for the decisive actions of the firefighters and bystanders involved in the rescue mission.

The Gloucester Fire Department shared that the submerged vehicle had plunged approximately 15-20 feet into the water after breaching granite barriers and crashing over a seawall. The vehicle was later retrieved from the water, and authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Fire Chief Eric Smith expressed profound gratitude towards all those who contributed to the successful rescue operation, highlighting the community’s unity and spirit in responding to emergencies.

The department underscored the critical role played by the off-duty firefighters and Good Samaritans in averting a potential disaster, with Smith emphasising that their collective efforts exemplified the best of Gloucester’s residents’ character. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of readiness and quick action in crisis situations, showcasing the unwavering commitment of emergency responders and ordinary citizens in safeguarding lives and ensuring community well-being.

In a heartfelt statement, Smith acknowledged the ripple effect of the rescue, transforming what could have been a tragic event into an uplifting narrative of solidarity and courage. As the investigation unfolds and more details emerge regarding the circumstances of the car’s plunge into the water, the heroes of this rescue operation stand as beacons of hope and exemplars of selfless service within the Gloucester community.

The actions of these off-duty firefighters and courageous bystanders serve as a testament to the unwavering dedication and preparedness of emergency responders, reinforcing the bond between first responders and the communities they serve. The exemplary conduct displayed during this challenging rescue underscores the importance of swift, decisive action in times of crisis, demonstrating the profound impact that timely intervention and collective teamwork can have in preserving lives and upholding public safety.

As news of this remarkable rescue spreads, it serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that everyday heroes play in safeguarding their communities and stepping up in moments of adversity. The collective effort and selfless bravery exhibited by the off-duty firefighters and bystanders in Gloucester underscore the resilience and compassion that define a community united in the face of challenges, shining a light on the power of human kindness and solidarity in the most testing circumstances.