City of Hackensack Fire Department executed a high-stakes water rescue that likely saved the individual’s life
photos courtesy of the City of Hackensack Fire Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, a terrifying scene unfolded at the Court Street Bridge on Tuesday night as a vehicle plunged into the Hackensack River, leaving a driver trapped and fighting for their life in rising, icy waters.
In a race against time and an incoming tide, the Hackensack Fire Department (HFD) executed a high-stakes water rescue that likely saved the individual’s life.
Seconds Count: The Rescue Near Court Street Bridge
The emergency call came in around 7:00 PM on January 6, 2026. First responders arrived to find a vehicle nearly submerged in the river. Witnesses on the scene frantically waved in the units, pointing toward the driver who was visibly struggling to escape the sinking cabin.
The situation was critical for two reasons:
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Rising Tide: The river level was increasing, threatening to fully submerge the vehicle.
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Trapped Victim: The driver’s leg was pinned inside the car, preventing them from swimming to safety.
Braving the Frigid Waters
Under the command of Deputy Chief Derevyanik, two firefighters were lowered directly into the freezing river. Working in total darkness and treacherous currents, the team managed to:
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Secure the driver with a personal flotation device (PFD).
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Deploy safety lines to prevent the victim from being swept away.
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Maneuver the driver onto the roof of the vehicle while Ladder 1 positioned its aerial bucket overhead for support.
Marine 1, the department’s rescue boat, was deployed to bridge the gap. In a coordinated effort with the Oradell Fire Department, crews successfully transferred the driver to the boat and brought them to dry land. The victim was immediately transported to Hackensack Meridian Health (HUMC) for emergency evaluation.
Specialized Training Pays Off
This life-saving operation wasn’t just a matter of luck. Officials noted that many of the firefighters involved had recently completed specialized swift-water rescue training.
This training was made possible by a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) awarded in 2025. The investment in “clawed back” federal funding allowed the department to acquire the state-of-the-art skills and equipment necessary for exactly this type of riverfront emergency.
“An excellent job by all members on scene,” the HFD stated. “This training is crucial when called for assistance to those in need.”
Scene Clearance and Investigation
Following the rescue, the Hackensack Police Department and Bergen County Hazmat remained on the scene to monitor for potential fuel leaks into the river. Five Star Towing worked late into the night to recover the submerged vehicle from the water.
The cause of the crash—and how the vehicle left the roadway—remains under investigation by local authorities.
Hackensack River Rescue: Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Hackensack River at Court Street Bridge |
| Time of Incident | Approx. 7:00 PM, Jan 6, 2026 |
| Rescuing Agency | Hackensack Fire Dept. (2nd Platoon) |
| Mutual Aid | Oradell Fire Department |
| Outcome | Driver successfully rescued and treated at HUMC |
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Wow! Training pays!