At a Glance
- 12-year-old Zac Howells grabbed the wheel after his mom lost consciousness while driving on December 14
- He guided the car onto grass and called emergency services, preventing injuries to anyone on the road
- West Mercia Police awarded him the Chief Constable Commendation on January 14 for “outstanding courage”
- Why it matters: A child’s quick thinking averted a potential tragedy and protected other motorists
A routine drive turned into a life-or-death moment when Nicola Crump blacked out behind the wheel with her foot still pressed on the gas. Her 12-year-old son, Zac Howells, was in the passenger seat.
Without hesitation, Zac leaned over, seized the steering wheel, and steered the moving car off the roadway onto a patch of grass, bringing it to a controlled stop. He then dialed emergency services for help.
The Incident
The December 14 episode unfolded in Hindlip, Worcestershire, according to West Mercia Police. Crump lost consciousness while the vehicle was still in motion, creating an immediate hazard for the pair and for other road users.
Zac’s split-second actions prevented a crash and kept both occupants unharmed. Police noted that no other drivers or pedestrians were injured.
The Award
Exactly one month later, on January 14, Chief Constable Richard Cooper presented Zac with the force’s Chief Constable Commendation, an honor reserved for individuals who display “exceptional bravery, outstanding courage and actions that go beyond what is normally expected.”
During the ceremony at West Mercia Police headquarters, Cooper praised the boy’s composure. “Must have been an extremely frightening experience for such a young boy,” he said.
The chief constable added, “For a 12-year-old to react in such a calm and mature manner is magnificent, and I would like to express my gratitude for his actions that day.”
Public Reaction
Police released a photo of Zac standing between his mother and Cooper, all three smiling at headquarters. The image quickly circulated after News Of Los Angeles first reported the story.
Officers emphasized that Zac’s bravery “extinguished any danger to them both, but also that of other members of the public who were on the road that day,” Cooper said.
Key Takeaways
- Age is no barrier to heroism: Zac’s quick reflexes saved lives
- Emergency training helps: Knowing to call for help immediately limited risk
- Recognition matters: Formal awards highlight everyday courage and encourage others to act decisively in crises
