UPS Driver Saves Man Who Jumped Into Rock River

ROCKFORD, Ill. (AP) — Authorities are praising the heroism of a UPS driver who risked his life to rescue a man who jumped into a river in Illinois.

When 40-year-old Jeff Hermanson of Rockford saw the man in the Rock River Tuesday, he parked his truck along a riverbank and jumped in. He swam about 15 yards to the man, then pulled him to shore.

The Rockford Register Star reports the man who jumped was taken to a hospital for a physical and mental evaluation.

Police and firefighters at the scene said the Rock River can be treacherous because of the fast current and cold water at this time of year.

Hermansen declined medical treatment and returned to work. He had dry clothes brought to him on his route.