MACON – In the early morning hours of May 26, Missouri Department of Transportation Maintenance Supervisor Robert Deters responded to high water on Missouri Route 16 in Lewis County. In doing so, he found a woman that had gotten stuck when trying to go through the water. With the water rising quickly, Deters acted quickly to rescue the woman. By the time Deters got to her, the water was half way up her door.
For his rescue efforts, Deters was presented with a Meritorious Safety Award by the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission and MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna at the August Commission meeting.
“I just did what anyone would have done,” Deters said humbly. “I am just glad I was able to get her to safety.”
Please remember that high water is always dangerous. Never try to drive through the water. Always turn around and find another route.
Photo cutline: Maintenance Supervisor Robert Deters (front center) is recognized for his eforts in rescuing a woman who had driven in flood waters.