Early Morning Vehicle Rescue at Civic Center Lagoon

In the early morning hours of July 23, 2026, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Engine 57 and Medic 57 responded to reports of a vehicle that had entered the Civic Center Lagoon.

Upon arrival, crews found a Marin County Sheriff's deputy on the north bank of the lagoon with two individuals: the driver of the submerged sedan and a passerby who had witnessed the vehicle enter the water. Before emergency responders arrived, the passerby courageously entered the water and successfully assisted the driver from the vehicle to shore.

The driver was evaluated by paramedics and transported to a local emergency department with minor injuries. The passerby was not injured.

Approximately one hour later, at 4:35 a.m., Engine 57 returned to the scene to assist with vehicle recovery after a tow truck operator was unable to access the submerged vehicle. A firefighter equipped for water operations entered the lagoon and secured chains to the vehicle's rear wheels. The chains were then connected to tow cables, allowing the vehicle to be safely extricated from the water.

The cause of the incident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

The incident serves as a reminder that waterways can present significant hazards, particularly during nighttime hours. The quick actions of the passerby, coordinated efforts of the Marin County Sheriff's Office, San Rafael Fire Department personnel, and the towing company contributed to a successful outcome with only minor injuries.