(WMOK-Metropolis, IL) On Wednesday Jeff Pippin, school bus driver for Robinson Transport, Inc had finished his bus route for the day when he observed a truck fully submerged in a pond that appeared to have run off the road. Inside the truck was a male occupant who appeared to be unconscious. Pippin called Robinson Transport General Manager, Tina Williamson and told her what was happening, where he was and to call 911.
Pippin then removed his shoes and jumped into the pond in an attempt to check on the man. As the vehicle began to submerge in the water the motorist regained consciousness and was able to exit the vehicle at which time he told Pippin that he could not swim. Pippin was able to secure the man and swim for shore.
Pippin told WMOK that as he swam with the man a tire that had been in back of the truck floated to the surface. The tire – also in the right place at the right time as Pippin was able to help the gentleman get a grip on the tire and more float him to shore.
After reaching shore emergency personal began to arrive and provide care to the motorist.
Robinson Transport Inc General Manager Tina Williamson told WMOK that the motorist stopped by Robinson on Friday morning to offer his gratitude. He told Williamson that he would not have made it if Pippin had not come along when he did.
Pippin spoke with WMOK on Monday morning about how the events unfolded – Hear our conversation below:
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