Rig Stalls in High Water in Montgomery County, MD, Likely Total Loss

July 22, 2025

The apparatus driver is not allowed to get behind the wheel while an investigation continues.

A Montgomery County firefighter, who failed to heed the 'turn around, don't drown' warning is no longer driving fire apparatus -- at least for now.

The rescue engine stalled in deep water Saturday while crews were responding to help stranded motorists.

The engine, valued at about a half-million dollars, is likely ruined, Fire Chief Corey Smedley told News4.

Water gushed onto the rig's hood and windshield and its wake rocked the partially submerged car that was occupied. The passengers were helped to safety.

The engine had to be towed away.

Smedley said the apparatus driver is not on leave, but has been removed from being behind the wheel while an investigation is conducted.

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.