Journalist and bystander rescue driver from sinking vehicle in Queensland

On Thursday, October 22, 2026, a dramatic rescue occurred near Morayfield, north of Brisbane in Queensland, Australia, after severe flooding led to a life-threatening incident. A local driver in a four-wheel-drive vehicle attempted to cross a flooded road but became trapped as the rising waters began to sweep the vehicle away and submerge it. The driver reportedly failed to notice the depth of the water or the warning signs in the area.

Will Murray, a reporter for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) who was on-site covering the extreme weather, witnessed the car begin to submerge. Realizing the immediate danger, Murray and a bystander named Daniel Heaney jumped into the floodwaters to assist. After initial difficulties opening the driver-side door, the two men successfully accessed the vehicle via the rear passenger door and pulled the driver to safety just before the car was completely engulfed. The rescue was documented on video by ABC camera operator Liz Pickering. Following the event, Murray described the experience as a harrowing but life-affirming moment, noting the importance of quick action when someone is in danger of drowning.