Nicola Crump: Boy, 12, saves mum after she fell unconscious while driving, foot still on accelerator
A boy who saved his mother’s life after she fell unconscious while driving is being recognised for his heroic actions.
Zac Howells, 12, was in the car with his mother Nicola Crump on December 14 when she suffered a medical episode while on the road in the Worcestershire county of England.
When his mum stopped responding, Zac tried to wake her up, but quickly realised it was up to him to take control of the situation, as Ms Crump’s foot was still pressed against the accelerator.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Quick thinking Zac attempted to wake his mum before taking control of the steering wheel and he guided the car onto a grass verge to slow it down,” a West Mercia police statement said.
Once the car had stopped he turned off the engine and called emergency services.
“Zac remained calm and gave the call handler the exact location of their car to which officers were deployed,” police said.
Because of his swift action, neither him or his mother were injured during the incident.
For his clever, calm and collected response, Zac was awarded the chief constable commendation at West Mercia Police headquarters in Hindlip, Worcestershire on January 14.
“The Chief Constable Commendation is awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional bravery, outstanding courage and actions that go beyond what is normally expected,” police said.
He was given a tour of the headquarters, meet the call handler he spoke to on the day, the officer who attended the scene and even some off duty police dogs.
Richard Cooper, a local chief constable, commended Zac’s courage when he presented him with the award.
“I am delighted to present Zac with this award today following what must have been an extremely frightening experience for such a young boy,” he said.
“For a 12-year-old to react in such a calm and mature manner is magnificent and I would like to express my gratitude for his actions that day.
“His display of bravery certainly extinguished any danger to them both but also that of other members of the public who were on the road that day.”
