A Utah teenager died Monday from his injuries at the hospital after diving into a canal to try to rescue a 2-year-old leftist when his car fell into the water this weekend.
Justin Bates, a 15-year-old from West Valley City, was sitting among five people in a car that lost control and took care of the road at Indiana Avenue and Delong Street in Salt Lake City on Saturday. The car crashed into the Jordan River Canal.
A 20-year-old woman who was driving and two boys, aged 16 and 17, managed to escape. Family members said Bates made it safe as well, but turned her around to try to leave the 2-year-old girl in the underground car, Fox 13 reported Salt Lake City. It was not immediately clear how the party knew each other.
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Two officers with the Salt Lake City Police Department arrived on the scene and released their heavy gear and rushed out to rescue the children. The Salt Lake City fire department quickly arrived and jumped into the water, while bystanders also helped.
One officer doubled in the water several times, and was unable to get into the car, police said. A firefighter used a self-contained search engine (SCBA) to rescue the toddler.
Bates and the 2-year-old were born in critical condition to the primary hospital for children. He fought Monday morning for his injuries while the girl remained on life support, KUTV reported.
Police on Monday released exciting officer-dry body cameras showing the rescue operation.
“With no thought to personal safety, officers pulled away their gear and attempted a dangerous rescue of these two children,” Chief Mike Brown said in a statement. “It was dark. The water was cold. But these officers did not hesitate to help and work to save lives. I am proud of them.”
‘Unfortunately, one of the children suffered injuries. Our hearts go out to the family right now [Blue heart] and we mourn with you, ”the police department tweeted in an update.
Investigators believe speeding played a role in the crash and did not expect charges to be filed against the driver. The speed limit at the intersection next to the crash site is 30 mph, Fox reported 13. Bates’ family set up a think tank with the America First Credit Union and a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral costs.
