Massachusetts Father’s Split-Second Decision Saved a Life in New Bedford

The SouthCoast woke up Tuesday morning to torrential rain, flooded roadways and a long list of weather-related headaches. Flash flooding caused traffic backups, dangerous driving conditions and numerous accidents across the region. For one Acushnet father of three, however, the storm became something much more significant: a chance to save a stranger's life.

Around 6 a.m., Stephen St. Martin was driving along Route 140 near Exit 3 in New Bedford when he spotted something alarming. Through the heavy rain and standing water, he saw a vehicle that had apparently hydroplaned and landed upside down in floodwater. Without hesitation, St. Martin pulled over.

Most people would probably understand if someone chose to stay inside their vehicle during a dangerous storm. The rain was relentless, the roadway was flooded and visibility was poor. St. Martin never considered just driving by.

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A Split-Second Decision

"All of a sudden, I saw a vehicle rolled over," St. Martin told The MGM Show Tuesday morning. "I guess he hit a hydroplane and rolled in the water. I parked my car, jumped out, ran into the water, ripped the back door open, got him out of the water, and carried him over to the side of the road."

The vehicle had landed in water that he said was up past the windows, creating a terrifying situation for the driver trapped inside. According to St. Martin, the man told him he believed he was going to drown if help didn't arrive. Thankfully, help arrived almost immediately.

More Than Just a Rescue

The driver, believed to be in his 30s, escaped with little more than an airbag burn. Considering the circumstances, it's nothing short of remarkable. While authorities have not yet publicly identified the driver, St. Martin tells us he is going to be OK.

READ MORE: Gazelle Saves Woman’s Life on Saco River, Maine [VIDEO]

St. Martin said the man was understandably shaken after the ordeal. Once the immediate danger had passed, the Acushnet dad gave him a hug and some reassurance. "I told him he made my day, that he's okay and alive," St. Martin said.

A Reminder to Look Out for One Another

One of the things that stood out most about St. Martin's story was his reason for stopping. It wasn't about being a hero or seeking recognition. It was simply about treating someone else the way he hopes others would treat his family.

"I got a wife and three kids," he said. "I only wish somebody would do the same."

It's a simple statement, but one that says everything.

Acushnet Dad Saves Driver From Drowning in New Bedford

On a morning when most of us were focused on flooded basements, delayed commutes and miserable weather, St. Martin was focused on something else entirely: helping another person get home alive. Because of that decision, one family won't be getting a phone call they never want to receive, and that's the kind of story worth talking about.