An off-duty Mountie who tried to save a man whose car crashed into a creek in the Okanagan has been praised for his heroism. 

Staff Sergeant Major Robert Daly didn’t think twice before jumping into action on Jan. 24 when he saw a vehicle leave the highway at about 10:40 pm. 

It happened in the north end of Vernon. 

Daly, who was with his daughter, pulled over and ran across the highway to see what had happened. 

Photo credit: RCMPStaff Sergeant Major Robert Daly

The vehicle had overturned in a creek and was mostly submerged in the water.

While his daughter called 911, Daly jumped into the cold water and – despite the darkness – attempted to free the driver, who was trapped by his seatbelt. 

Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to get him out until first responders arrived and gave him a pair of scissors 

The driver was then released and taken unresponsive to hospital. 

Tragically, the 37-year-old Vernon man later died. 

Daly was uninjured. 

“Staff Sergeant Major Daly is an invaluable member of the Southeast District senior executive team,” said the District Commander of the RCMP Southeast District, Chief Superintendent Brad Haugli. 

“The emotional impacts from that day are still fresh for both Robb and his daughter who tried to save a life. We will continue to provide them ongoing support. Their combined efforts were truly heroic.”

Cpl Jesse O’Donaghey, meanwhile, said news of the man’s death caused “profound sadness” for the RCMP. 

“We, the RCMP, wish to extend our deepest condolences to the man’s loved ones,” he added.