NICE — The quick work of a man who saw a van plunge into the lake saved the life of an elderly woman Thursday.
According to a California Highway Patrol press release, Javier Batres, 36, of Lakeport, saw C. Grutzmacher, driving a 2001 Chevy Venture, run off the road, cross both lanes of the Nice/Lucerne Cutoff, cut through some bushes and go into the waters of Rodman Slough. The van began to sink about 75 to 100 feet from the shore.
Batres dove into Clear Lake after Grutzmacher, breaking out the rear window of the van as it quickly submerged. Batres climbed to the front of the minivan and pulled the victim out the rear window.
Grutzmacher and Batres were assisted to shore by fire personnel following the extrication.
According to the press release, Grutzmacher”s only complaint was a result of the initial collision. She was admitted to a local hospital for a “prior medical condition.” According to the CHP, the prior medical condition caused Grutzmacher, 76, of Kelseyville to get dizzy and black out.
“He saved her life,” the CHP reported.
Contact Aura Thomas at athomas@record-bee.com.
