On May 8, 2011, at 2:30am, Brandon RCMP were dispatched to a single vehicle which had slid into the water after hitting the ditch.
Police were informed that the driver of the vehicle was requesting assistance as his pick-up truck was surrounded by flood water he had encountered while driving on Provincial Road 459 on Grand Valley Road North, just south of the Highway 1.
RCMP arrived on scene along with the RM of Whitehead, Virden and Brandon Fire Departments and the Manitoba Office of the Fire Commissioner. Emergency personnel located the vehicle just off the highway surrounded by flood water. It was determined that due to the danger of the fast moving water going past the vehicle, a water rescue team would be required to reach the driver.
The driver, a 51-year-old male from Brandon, was successfully rescued from his truck and brought to safety. The driver was taken to the Brandon Regional Health Centre to be checked over but it is not believed he sustained any injuries. The truck was also towed out of the water with the assistance of the emergency personnel and a local tow company.
RCMP are still investigating the incident to determine why the subject was at this location. This highway had been closed due to flooding and a sign was present to indicate the road closure.
The investigation continues and charges are anticipated under the Highway Traffic Act.
The RCMP would like to remind motorists to obey road closures. Many roads are flooded and pose serious safety risks to those that venture onto the roads and Emergency Personnel who are expected to provide assistance.
Please stay away from fast moving waters. It’s for your safety!
