OFFICER RESCUES DRIVER FROM CAR IN CANAL

September 4, 2001

The Coral Springs Police are investigating a motor vehicle crash that occurred on September 4, 2001 at approximately 5:30 PM in which a 1990 Toyota wound up in a canal.

Police Officer Chris Fahey was at an apartment complex at the 3200 block of Coral Ridge Drive investigating a bicycle theft when two residents advised him that there was something in the canal on the opposite side of the complex. Officer Fahey ran to the canal and observed a vehicle sinking. The officer saw one occupant in the driver's seat that appeared to be dazed. Officer Fahey jumped into the canal and was able to remove the driver through a back door.

The 1990 Toyota driven by Daniel Occellant, age 31, of Coral Springs was traveling northbound on Coral Ridge Drive when the vehicle left the roadway and entered the canal. The driver stated that he stepped on the gas instead of the brake. Mr.Occellant was transported to Coral Springs Medical Center in good condition. He was charged with the violation of a Learner's driver's license. Officer Fahey who has been with the department for one year was checked at the hospital and released.

PIO/Sergeant James Hanrahan 954-346-1376