A Nebraska woman is facing multiple charges after crashing her vehicle into the Platte River, prompting a heroic rescue of her children. Karni Metcalf, 28, has been charged with felony child abuse, driving under the influence, and unlawful operation of a vehicle with a person under 16.
The incident occurred Sunday night at approximately 9:30 p.m. when Hall County deputies were called to the scene near Highway 281 and Pine Street. Upon arrival, deputies discovered Metcalf’s vehicle submerged in the river, with Metcalf standing in the water. Her children, however, remained inside the vehicle.
Deputy Jacob Rodriguez-Rojas immediately jumped into the frigid waters to rescue the children. Chief Deputy Josh Berlie praised the deputy’s actions, calling it “very heroic,” noting that the dangerous situation was a result of the mother’s poor decision-making. Authorities believe Metcalf’s vehicle struck a concrete retaining wall before it slid into the river. Several 911 callers had reported seeing Metcalf driving recklessly before the crash occurred.
Metcalf and her children were transported by ambulance to CHI Health St. Francis for medical evaluation. A deputy who spoke with Metcalf at the hospital noticed signs of intoxication, including the smell of alcohol and bloodshot, watery eyes. Court documents revealed that she failed a breathalyzer test.
Metcalf admitted to authorities that she was aware of her children being in the vehicle and that they were on their way home from Kearney at the time of the crash. Following her treatment, Metcalf was booked into the Hall County Jail, where she awaits further proceedings.
