Illinois police officers risked their lives entering freezing water to save three people from a DUI crash, while the reckless driver who endangered innocent lives walked away with only minor injuries.
Story Snapshot
- Two Glendale Heights officers entered 1°F icy pond water to rescue three crash victims
- Driver arrested for DUI after plunging vehicle into frozen pond at 1:30 a.m.
- Body camera footage captures heroic rescue in life-threatening conditions
- All three occupants survived with minor injuries despite 12-foot deep submersion
Heroic Officers Risk Hypothermia in Life-or-Death Rescue
Glendale Heights police officers Marco Lomibao and Dennis Stachura demonstrated extraordinary courage on December 14, 2025, when they plunged into a frozen pond to save three crash victims. With air temperatures at 1°F and ice blocks floating in the water, the officers entered the pond near Burdette Avenue and Roberta Avenue around 1:30 a.m. Officer Stachura described losing feeling in his body while relying on “pure adrenaline and instinct” during the rescue operation.
The vehicle had crashed approximately 20-30 feet from shore and submerged about 12 feet deep in the icy water. Officer Lomibao characterized the situation as “life or death,” emphasizing how visibility challenges made the rescue even more perilous. The officers kept all three occupants afloat until additional personnel from the Glenside Fire Protection District arrived to assist with the extraction.
Watch:
DUI Driver’s Reckless Decision Endangers Lives
The crash resulted from alleged impaired driving, leading to the driver’s arrest on DUI charges. This incident highlights the dangerous consequences of driving under the influence, particularly during harsh winter conditions when icy roads increase accident risks. The driver’s selfish decision not only endangered two passengers but also forced law enforcement officers to risk their own lives in freezing conditions to clean up the mess.
Police Chief George Pappas commended his officers for their “selfless acts” while confirming the DUI charges against the driver. The incident occurred in a residential area, demonstrating how drunk driving threatens entire communities. All three occupants were treated for minor injuries and released, though the officers faced significant hypothermia risks during their heroic intervention.
Body Camera Evidence Showcases Police Excellence
The Glendale Heights Police Department released dramatic body camera footage on December 17, 2025, providing clear evidence of their officers’ dedication to protecting and serving their community. This footage serves as powerful documentation of police heroism, contrasting sharply with negative media narratives about law enforcement. The video shows officers immediately responding without hesitation, entering dangerous icy waters to save lives.
The incident reinforces the critical importance of supporting our law enforcement officers who regularly risk their safety for others. These officers exemplified the finest traditions of American policing, putting duty and service above personal safety. Their actions deserve recognition and serve as a reminder that police officers are often the thin blue line between life and death in emergency situations.
Sources:
3 rescued after car plunges into icy Illinois pond
3 people saved from freezing pond in Glendale Heights
