Exclusive: Woman Dies as Car Plunges into Lagos Lagoon

The Toyota Camry reportedly veered off the Third Mainland Bridge, somersaulted, and plunged into Lagos Lagoon, resulting in the driver’s death.

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Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire & Rescue Service (Ebute Elefun crew), LASEMA, LASWA Marine, Marine Police, and other agencies were deployed to the scene. The official Controller General of the Fire Service confirmed the recovery of the lifeless body, which was later handed over to the police and family.

Family’s Ordeal & Rescue Shortcomings

The victim had reportedly called her mother at 1 a.m., saying she’d be home in 20 minutes. When communication failed by 2 a.m., her family grew alarmed and began searching by 6 a.m., eventually discovering her car’s bumper near the bridge.

Family sources criticized the poor emergency response, noting that LASTMA and Marine Police personnel were present but made no attempt to dive or rescue. Instead, local divers were paid ₦400,000 by the victim’s father to recover the body.

Context & Historical Precedent

Third Mainland Bridge has witnessed multiple fatal incidents before. In April 2024, an 18-seater bus accident left passengers flung into the lagoon

RoadKing.ng Safety Analysis

1. Danger Zone: Early dawn or nighttime driving on the bridge increases risk due to low visibility and potential vehicle failure.
2. Emergency Gaps: There’s an urgent need for bridge-side water rescue kits, trained divers, and routine patrol of first-response units.
3. Policy Action: Lagos government and agencies must equip and train personnel for swift water rescues and eliminate any financial barriers to life-saving efforts.

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