Man With Prosthetic Leg Rescues Sinking Driver In Hudson County

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — Several bystanders helped save a senior citizen in Bayonne on Tuesday when the man drove his car into the Newark Bay — including a 29-year-old bystander who had to remove his prosthetic leg to swim out and save him.

According to news reports, a 68-year-old man accidentally drove his SUV into the water on Tuesday and was trapped as it began sinking. Several onlookers cried out for help.

On Friday, Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis told Patch, “Anthony Capuano [29] showed great courage and an instinct to do the right thing on a moment’s notice. Marcelino Cruz demonstrated a willingness to help Mr. Capuano make sure that there would be a successful rescue. On behalf of the people of Bayonne, I would like to thank both Mr. Capuano and Mr. Cruz for coming to the aid of one of our residents and saving his life.”

According to a report on ABC News, Capuano, 29, an Elizabeth resident, hopped over a fence — and then took off his prosthetic leg before he swam out to the victim. Capuano had been in an accident more than 10 years ago.

Cruz, a Jersey City resident, also helped.

The driver is expected to recover. Read more about the incident here.

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