Quick-Thinking Mother Averts Catastrophe After Husband's Reckless Flight
A Florida mother's lightning-fast reflexes are being credited with saving her three children after their father made the shocking decision to leap from their moving vehicle during a police chase. The incident, which unfolded on Highway 79 in Washington County, northwest Florida, on November 10, began when a young child secretly dialled 911 to report her parents were fighting inside the car.
Secret 911 Call Triggers Chaotic Pursuit
Authorities confirmed the domestic violence call was disconnected abruptly before responders could gather more information. Minutes later, deputies spotted the family's SUV, which matched the description provided by the child. When officers attempted to pull the vehicle over, the driver, 46-year-old Albert Dale Searcy, refused to stop.
What happened next left officers in disbelief. As deputies closed in, Searcy flung open the driver's door and hurled himself out onto the road, leaving his wife and three terrified children hurtling down the highway in an driverless SUV.
Wife's Heroic Actions Prevent Tragedy
Inside the out-of-control vehicle, Searcy's wife, Heather, sprang into action. With the SUV still moving, she launched herself over the centre console and seized the steering wheel. Displaying remarkable composure, she managed to bring the vehicle to a safe stop while their three children remained strapped in the back.
Investigators made clear just how close the family came to catastrophe. Police say the outcome could have been fatal had Heather not reacted instantly. Her decisive action prevented what deputies described as a potentially deadly collision.
Aftermath and Charges
A responding deputy immediately detained Searcy, who was described as stunned, scraped, and covered in road rash, but still able to stand. His booking photo shows the extent of his facial injuries from hitting the road face-first.
The family showed signs of a violent struggle. Deputies reported that Heather had 'apparent injuries to her face' consistent with a physical altercation. She told investigators she had repeatedly begged her husband to pull over and let her and the children out, requests he allegedly ignored.
Heather also revealed that when Albert realised their daughter had secretly called 911, he 'struck the child and took the phone away'. According to her account, the family had only recently returned to Washington County after a brief stay and were headed back to Louisiana when the fight broke out.
Emergency medical services evaluated all five family members at the scene. Heather and the children were cleared, while Albert was treated for abrasions but required no further medical care.
Albert Dale Searcy was taken to the Washington County Jail, where he remains in custody facing a barrage of charges including:
- Tampering with or harassing a witness
- Domestic violence battery
- Fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer
- Child abuse
- Driving while license suspended
