Sheriff's deputy rescues man, dog from Menifee flooding

Glenn McCammon and his dog Problems were rescued Friday when a deputy swam through flood waters to rescue them. Photos courtesy Riverside County Sheriff's Department

Story updated at 2 p.m.:

A local man and his dog got some special help from a Riverside County Sheriff's deputy during Friday's flooding in Menifee.

Glenn McCammon, 76, and his dog Problems were stranded when his car stalled in rising flood water on Sun City Boulevard shortly before 2:30 p.m., according to the Sheriff's Department and Riverside County Fire. Rain water rushing through a flood channel next to the golf course surrounded his car on a stretch of road between Ridgemoor Road and E. Worcester Road.

When water began to enter the car's passenger compartment, McCammon took his dog and exited the vehicle but couldn't get out of the water. That's when Deputy Jeff Lewis swam out to him and pulled the two to safety.

"The Fire Department was just arriving on scene," said Sheriff's Captain Brandon Ford, who also serves as Menifee Police Chief. "We completely respect the role of the Fire Department because they are the experts in rescues like that. But Deputy Lewis felt that because it appeared the man was starting to be pulled by the current, seconds could make the difference. He felt the man was in immediate danger, so he decided to go in after him.

"We're incredibly proud of Jeff for his quick thinking and actions."

Everyone was safe after the rescue. Ford urged motorists to remember the dangers of flooding on local roads, especially with an even stronger storm coming on Sunday.

"People must remember to use good judgement when deciding which roads to travel in conditions like that," Ford said. "Sometimes these floods leave as fast as they come. Either pull over and wait a few minutes or find another way to go around. Plan your trips ahead of time and prepare for situations like this."