2 British Columbia residents receive award after rescuing trapped British couple from car

Two British Columbia residents have been honoured by police for their courageous actions in helping a British couple escape from their partially submerged vehicle.

According to the RCMP, tourists Mark and Janet Brimicombe were touring the province in June 2022 when their road trip “quickly turned into a life-threatening situation.”

After visiting family in Vancouver, the two were driving on Highway 99 in the Hat Creek area near Cache Creek when their vehicle veered off the road and plunged down a steep slope into the creek.

“The water was moving quickly and filling their vehicle,” the RCMP said this week. “Both Mark and Janet had injuries and the situation was critical.”

However, two other motorists saw the Brimicombes leave the road and both took action.

According to police, Nicholas Froese of Kelowna and Ken MacKenzie of Lac La Hache walked across the embankment, opened the sunroof of their vehicle and helped the couple escape.

“Mr. Froese and Mr. MacKenzie assisted the tourists up the steep slope and administered first aid while calling 911,” the RCMP said.

“Following the incident, the Brimicombes were treated at the Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops for their injuries, which could have been much worse if their rescuers had not acted so quickly.”

Froese and MacKenzie both received a Commanding Officer Commendation for their courage and selfless actions.

“Mr Froese and Mr MacKenzie acted quickly and decisively in a dangerous situation,” said Const Richard Wright. “Their actions and aftercare for the Brimicombes were exceptional.”

Mark Brimicombe said the awards were “more than deserved”, adding that their vehicle rolled down 170 feet and was well out of sight of motorway traffic.

“Our rescuers were brave, calm and quick-witted. When they realized we were still alive, they came down and helped us get out of the car, cross the river and climb up the steep bank,” he said.

“We still think about them and can’t imagine what would have happened if they hadn’t been there. Not a day goes by that we don’t thank God that He is alive.”

The Brimicombes also thanked the police, ambulance crews and hospital staff.

“Every one of them was helpful and contributed greatly to our recovery,” said Mark Brimicombe. “British Columbia can be justly proud of such brave citizens and the staff of their public services.”

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