DBFD Recognizes Firefighters for Heroic Save

By SASHA STATON, Correspondent | November 03, 2021 | FLORIDA

Story No. 110321101

Photo by Sasha StatonScott Hughes and Jacob Otto

On the evening of September 12, 2021, Driver/Engineer Jacob Otto and Driver/Engineer Scott Hughes were assigned as part of a detail providing medical coverage at a local stadium during a sporting event. Reports came in that a vehicle had lost control and spun out into a retention pond near the stadium with occupants trapped inside. DE Otto responded to the pond on the northeast corner identifying the vehicle in question. Instinctively he entered the murky water to assist the passengers, without the aid of dive or water rescue equipment. At this time the vehicle was mostly submerged, and he found the occupant trapped up against the rear windshield. He utilized a pocketknife to shatter the rear windshield and remove the occupant, sustaining injury to his left arm in the process. By this time DE Hughes had also entered the water and assisted him in swimming the victim to the shoreline. DE Otto and Hughes’ quick action, extraordinary bravery, and commitment goes above and beyond the normal performance of duties. Their actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the fire service and reflect greatly upon themselves, the Daytona Beach Fire Department, and the City of Daytona Beach.