Man Jumps into Potomac River After Car Chase, Rescued by Sheriff's Deputy

Berkeley County Sheriff's Office praises deputy's actions in transitioning from pursuit to life-saving measures.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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A 56-year-old Martinsburg man with active warrants fled from a Berkeley County Sheriff's deputy, leading to a car chase that ended with the suspect jumping into the Potomac River. The deputy immediately jumped in to rescue the man, successfully bringing him to safety.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the difficult and dangerous situations law enforcement officers can face, where they must quickly shift from pursuing a suspect to prioritizing life-saving measures. It also raises questions about how to handle suspects with a history of evading arrest and making statements about preferring death over jail.

The details

The chase began when a deputy saw the driver, identified as Edward Light, fail to obey a traffic signal and drive recklessly on I-81. Light led the deputy on a pursuit through neighborhoods before heading toward the Potomac River Bridge, where he struck another vehicle. Light then fled on foot, climbing over a guardrail and jumping into the river. The deputy immediately entered the water and rescued Light, bringing him safely back to land where he received medical treatment.

  • The incident occurred on February 19, 2026, before 6:00 PM.
  • Light had multiple active warrants through the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office prior to this incident.

The players

Deputy Merson

The Berkeley County Sheriff's deputy who pursued Light and then rescued him from the Potomac River.

Edward Light

The 56-year-old Martinsburg man who fled from the deputy, leading to the car chase and river jump.

Berkeley County Sheriff Rob Blair

The sheriff who praised Deputy Merson's actions and professionalism in transitioning from pursuit to life-saving measures.

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What they’re saying

“Deputy Merson's actions on February 19th demonstrate the highest standards of law enforcement professionalism and courage. In a matter of moments, he transitioned from pursuing a fleeing suspect to risking his own safety to save a life. His quick decision-making, composure under pressure, and selfless commitment to preserving life reflect great credit upon himself and this agency. We are proud of Deputy Merson and his unwavering dedication to protecting our community — even when that includes those who have chosen to break the law.”

— Berkeley County Sheriff Rob Blair (panhandlenewsnetwork.com)

What’s next

Light is currently in the custody of the Washington County Sheriff's Office for criminal charges committed in Maryland, as well as for his active warrants through the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office. He has also been charged with one count of Felony Fleeing with Reckless Indifference.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the difficult balance law enforcement officers must strike between pursuing suspects and prioritizing public safety. It also highlights the need for continued dialogue around how to handle individuals with a history of evading arrest and making concerning statements about their intentions.