A 12-year-old boy in England is being praised for quick thinking and courage after stepping in to save his mother’s life during what police described as “an extremely frightening experience” on the road.
Zac Howells helped his mother, Nicola Crump, after she lost consciousness while driving — with her foot still pressing the gas pedal — according to a statement from the West Mercia Police (WMP) in Hindlip, Worcestershire.
Police said Zac immediately took control of the steering wheel and guided the car off the road and onto grass, bringing the vehicle to a stop. He then called emergency personnel for help.
Neither Zac nor his mother was injured in the Dec. 14 incident. A month later, on Jan. 14, Zac received Police Chief Constable Richard Cooper’s Commendation in recognition of his actions.
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The Chief Constable Commendation is awarded to people “who demonstrate exceptional bravery, outstanding courage and actions that go beyond what is normally expected,” WMP said.
“I am delighted to present Zac with this award today following what must have been an extremely frightening experience for such a young boy,” Cooper said when Zac and Nicola visited WMP’s headquarters.
The police chief constable added that Zac’s response stood out for its composure under pressure.
“For a 12-year-old to react in such a calm and mature manner is magnificent, and I would like to express my gratitude for his actions that day,” Cooper said.
“His display of bravery certainly extinguished any danger to them both, but also that of other members of the public who were on the road that day,” he added.
