Victim's mom speaks out, officer hailed as hero after SUV ends up in Saw Mill River

YONKERS, N.Y. (WABC) -- A relieved mother is speaking out and a New York City police officer being hailed as a hero after a close call for two women.

Their SUV was stuck in high water on the Saw Mill River after they careened off the parkway. And fortunately, the off-duty cop was nearby and jumped into action.

"She's very, very shaken up," mom Ronae Henderson said. "But we're all grateful and blessed that she's alive today."

Gwenasia Henderson was driving in the pouring rain on the Saw Mill when she lost control near Executive Boulevard.

"Another car had stopped, and when she tried to avoid hitting that car, from the puddle, when she swerved, she swerved from hitting the guard rail," Ronae Henderson said. "And I guess she just lost control."

The 22-year-old was on her way to school at Mercy College with a friend when the two women found themselves in several feet of water, with the current moving the vehicle.

That's when Officer Eric Karl, assigned to the 44th Precinct in the Bronx, pulled over to help. He pulled the women out of the car through the window and carried them to the shore.

"It's good to know that there's still good people out in the world today that will come out of their comfort zone to stop and help others in need," she said. "And what he did for my daughter yesterday, I'm forever grateful and blessed."

The vehicle suffered some damage, but more importantly, no injuries were reported. And Ronae Henderson is filled with gratitude.