Injured driver found in field after river crash

Rescue team use thermal imaging after car found submerged

Rescuers used thermal imaging to locate an injured man after his car crashed into a river in darkness.

The incident happened in Godinton Lane in Ashford shortly after midnight on Monday morning.

Firefighters were called after the car became submerged after a single-vehicle crash.

Crews were at the scene for more than 90 minutes and used a thermal imaging camera to help police locate the driver, who had freed himself from the car.

He was found about 100 metres downstream of the car in a field.

The ambulance service received the call shortly before 1.30am and one crew attended.

The man suffered injuries including a head injury. He was assessed and treated at the scene before being taken to Ashford’s William Harvey Hospital.

Firefighters helped the ambulance crew by placing the man on a stretcher and transferring him to an ambulance.

Staff at nearby Godinton House and Gardens did not witness the incident but noted damage to a bridge in the lane near Worten Farm after the crash.

Police are appealing for anyone who saw the black Ford Mondeo crash at 12.30am to get in touch.

The car was heading towards the A20 when it left the road and entered the water.

PC Mick Sayer said: “We would like to speak to any witnesses that have information that could assist us with our inquiries.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting reference number AW/MS/62/17

The aftermath of the crash on Godinton Lane where a man was found after his car was driven into the river