Hole swallows car after woman hits hydrant in DUI crash, FHP says

Witnesses rush to rescue driver

SUMMERFIELD, Fla. – A woman and her adult son rushed to rescue a woman whose car was submerged in a hole she created by crashing into a fire hydrant while drunk, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said.

Marion County deputies question Alexandrea Runyon.

Dawn and Shawn Drake told deputies Alexandrea Runyon, 21, left the 2004 Buick Century along the side of the hole, which was about 20 feet wide and 8 feet deep. The crash was reported around 2 a.m. at U.S. 441 and SE 156 Place in Summerfield.

The Drakes called 911 but said they lost sight of Runyon and became worried she was possibly swept beneath the car and drowning, according to a report from the Ocala Star Banner.

Dawn looked in the car for Runyon, but told deputies she became trapped inside the partially submerged vehicle. 

Shawn rushed to save his mother from the car, but said Runyon then got back inside and tried to shut the passenger side door, according to deputy body camera video.

Shawn told deputies he fought to gain control of the door to rescue his mother, who later told deputies she was holding on for her life.

Dawn was eventually freed and was not injured.

Runyon was arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail.

Alexandrea Runyon.

About the Authors:

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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