Two men were safely rescued Tuesday night when their vehicle was swept away by high waters at Upton.
Multiple agencies were dispatched at about 8 p.m. following a report of two people in the vehicle that had crossed a bridge. It was swept downstream by flood waters.
One of the two reported — while seeking help from 911 — that water was chest-deep in the vehicle.
Authorities mobilized in an area on the west fork of Roubidoux Creek where it crosses Upton Road. Water rapidly rose. The occupants, ages 61 and 57, later moved to the bed of the pickup before one was swept away, but was able to safely get out near the Peace Chapel bridge at about 9:20 p.m., authorities said.
The other man remaining with the truck received a life vest from officers. By 10 p.m., water levels fell about 2 feet. A water rescue boat arrived from Ava at about 10:30 p.m.
A road grader was brought in the area, entered the water twice and was crucial in the rescue, family and onlookers said. It was operated by Levi Stallcup, who works for Upton Township. The last person was brought to safety at about 11 p.m. when patrol officers were able to reach the man using the grader. There were no injuries.
Several agencies were on scene, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Texas County Sheriff’s Department, area firefighters and Upton Township.