A Lincoln Police officer who jumped into an icy pond last February to save a driver trapped inside a vehicle was presented with the April, 2023 Mayor’s Award of Excellence prior to Monday’s City Council meeting.
Sergeant Tu Tran jumped into action after a woman tried making a turn off of Yankee Hill Road onto Executive Woods Drive. Police say she was driving too fast for the icy conditions and was not able to make the turn.
Tran swam out to the sinking car and was able to pull the woman out and help her to shore. She was taken to the hospital and treated for hypothermia. Tran went home, changed into a dry uniform and went back to finish his shift.
Tran had also performed a water rescue of a motorist just a few months before the other incident. All award winners receive a $50 gift certificate, a day off with pay and a certificate. All monthly winners and nominees are eligible to receive the annual award, which comes with a $250 gift certificate, two days off with pay and a plaque.