SE Illinois News

State Senator Dale Fowler commended the swift actions of Williamson County deputies in a Facebook post dated December 3. He said, "Thanks to the quick thinking and brave efforts of our deputies, they were able to stop the car just in time, preventing what could have been a tragic situation."

"I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible actions of the Williamson County deputies who sprang into action to save a life," said Fowler, according to Facebook. "A woman, pregnant and with no working brakes, was driving dangerously close to Crab Orchard Lake. Thanks to the quick thinking and brave efforts of our deputies, they were able to stop the car just in time, preventing what could have been a tragic situation. This is just one example of how our local law enforcement continuously goes above and beyond to protect and serve our community."

According to a video report by ABC News, the incident occurred after 2 a.m. on December 2. A woman, who was 20 weeks pregnant, experienced brake failure while on her way to pick up her boyfriend and called emergency services for assistance. "I’m trying to hit the brakes as hard as I can and it won’t stop. It won’t even slow down," she told the dispatcher.

Screenshot of Sen. Dale Fowler's Dec. 3 Facebook post | State Senator Dale Fowler's Facebook page

Deputy Tyler Coffey, who was first on the scene, said his main concern was safely stopping the vehicle to prevent it from ending up in Crab Orchard Lake. Coffey positioned his patrol car in front of hers and brought it to a halt. Along with two other deputies, he ensured that the woman's car was put into park and confirmed her safety.

The vehicle was stopped approximately a quarter mile from Crab Orchard Lake without any harm coming to the driver.

In an interview with WSILTV, Jaelyn Mocaby recounted her experience during the incident. She was driving near Carterville, Illinois when she realized she couldn't stop or steer her car. "My adrenaline was running and I had to do everything I could to keep me and my baby safe," Mocaby said. She reported that from calling emergency services at 1:55 a.m., her car was stopped by 2:02 a.m., crediting deputies for their rapid response.

Fowler represents Illinois' 59th Senate District and has served as mayor of Harrisburg before joining the state senate. He is currently employed as a business development officer for People’s National Bank in Harrisburg after retiring from the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice in 2012. His political career includes roles as city commissioner and Saline County Board member, alongside chairing Midland Institute’s Saline County CEO program aimed at educating youth about entrepreneurship.