Off-duty firefighters awarded state's highest honor for heroic canal rescue

Two local firefighters risked their lives to save a family trapped in a submerged vehicle

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Senior Firefighters Travis Adams and Jeremy F. Newman have been selected to receive the Idaho Medal of Honor for their bravery on Oct. 5, 2025, when they jumped into a frigid canal to save a family trapped inside a submerged vehicle. The firefighters' actions were nothing short of heroic, but the tragedy of the accident remains as a Rexburg woman and a 2-year-old girl tragically succumbed to their injuries.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the selfless actions of first responders who put their own lives at risk to save others, even when off-duty. It also underscores the dangers of driving in hazardous conditions and the importance of water safety, as the accident resulted in a tragic loss of life.

The details

According to initial reports, the accident took place just before 1:50 PM at the intersection of 1100 E. A 2011 Hyundai Sonata pulled into the path of a 2022 Hyundai Palisade, causing a crash that sent the Sonata into the Shelley Canal. Adams and Newman, who were off-duty at the time, rushed to the scene and found the car upside down in the fast-moving water. Fully aware of the hazards, they entered the frigid water without hesitation and rescued the four trapped occupants one by one, carrying them through the current to the canal bank.

  • The accident took place on October 5, 2025.
  • Adams and Newman will be formally honored at a ceremony in Boise on September 1, 2026.

The players

Travis Adams

Senior Firefighter with the Idaho Falls Fire Department who risked his life to rescue a family trapped in a submerged vehicle.

Jeremy F. Newman

Senior Firefighter with the Idaho Falls Fire Department who joined Adams in the heroic canal rescue.

Rexburg woman

One of the occupants of the submerged vehicle who tragically succumbed to her injuries.

2-year-old girl

Another occupant of the submerged vehicle who tragically succumbed to her injuries.

43-year-old man

One of the occupants of the submerged vehicle who was rescued and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

11-year-old boy

One of the occupants of the submerged vehicle who was rescued and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

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What they’re saying

“Fully aware of the hazards posed by moving water, cold temperatures, and the vehicle's instability, Adams and Newman entered the frigid water without hesitation.”

— City of Idaho Falls (Press release)

“Their actions reflect extraordinary courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to protecting life—on duty or off. They represent the very best of our profession and of this department.”

— Paul Radford, Idaho Falls Fire Department Deputy Chief (Press release)

What’s next

Adams and Newman will be formally honored at a ceremony in Boise on September 1, 2026.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the bravery and dedication of first responders who put their own lives at risk to save others, even when off-duty. It serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of driving in hazardous conditions and the importance of water safety, as the tragic loss of life underscores the need for continued vigilance and education in these areas.