Hillsborough County, Florida – A woman narrowly escaped a deadly situation on April 5, 2026, after her vehicle went off the roadway and into a retention pond at 70th and Hartford Street.

Unable to swim, she called 911 just after 9 p.m., alerting the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to her peril. The vehicle quickly began filling with water, trapping her inside.

Deputies arrived within minutes and immediately entered the pond. They broke a window and pulled the woman from the submerged car, bringing her safely to shore. She suffered only minor injuries.

“Our deputies did not hesitate when seconds mattered most,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Their quick, decisive actions saved this woman’s life. This is exactly what teamHCSO is trained to do, step in during critical moments and protect our community.”

Later, HCSO’s Dive Team removed the vehicle from the pond.

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