Woman Flies From Bridge Into Mill Creek After Being Struck by Vehicle (VIDEO)

Rescue efforts of Salem Police and Fire recognized as lifesaving.

Photo and video by Jerry Freeman Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore.) - Salem Police say 48-year old Janice Johnson was struck by a vehicle on Mission Street Wednesday night, on the bridge over Mill Creek.

She was propelled over the concrete barrier about 30 feet into the water below, and was rescued by Salem Police and Fire personnel, according to Salem Police Lt. Dave Okada.

He says it happened around 6:35 p.m. when 48-year old Janice Johnson was attempting to cross Mission Street from the north to the south at the bridge that crosses the Mill Creek.

"The area was very dark with heavy traffic, and she was struck by a 2005 Ford van that was being driven eastbound on Mission St by 73-year old Barbara Witt of Salem," Okada said.

"Johnson, who was wearing dark clothing at the time, was thrown off the front of the van, completely over the concrete barrier next to the roadway and into the water below. The incident was witnessed by passing motorists who immediately called 911."

Salem Police Officer Oscar Zambrano arrived on the scene and located Johnson, who had been swept northbound in the creek and under the roadway. Okada says she had grabbed a branch as she emerged from under the north end of the bridge.

"Officer Zambrano immediately jumped into the water and held onto Johnson so she would not be swept further downstream. He was soon joined by Salem Police Officer Juan Becerra, Salem Police Sergeant Andy Connolly and Salem Firefighter/Medic Amy Charbonneau, who assisted in pulling Johnson to the bank of the creek."

Salem Firefighters then had to cut a path in the brush in order to get Johnson up to the awaiting ambulance for transport to Salem Hospital, where she was admitted with non-life threatening injuries.

Okada says no citations have been issued at this time.

"The actions of Officers Zambrano and Becerra, Sgt Connolly and Firefighter Charbonneau likely saved victim Janice Johnson from much more severe injury, or even death in the cold water," Okada said.

"Their willingness to jump into the cold, dark water to assist another person was a selfless act that displayed the professionalism and bravery of these public servants."

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