A 12-year-old, Zac Howells, received the Chief Constable Commendation after steering his mother’s car to safety when she lost consciousness on Dec. 14. Zac brought the vehicle onto the grass verge and called emergency services; neither he nor his mother were injured. On Jan. 14 Chief Constable Richard Cooper presented the award at West Mercia Police headquarters in Hindlip, Worcestershire, praising Zac’s calm, brave response.
12-Year-Old Zac Howells Honored After Steering Mother’s Car to Safety When She Lost Consciousness
West Mercia PoliceZac Howells and his mom, Nicola Crump
A 12-year-old from Worcestershire, Zac Howells, has been awarded the Chief Constable Commendation after he took decisive action to save his mother’s life during a frightening medical emergency on the road.
On Dec. 14, Zac's mother, Nicola Crump, lost consciousness while driving with her foot still on the accelerator. The preteen gripped the steering wheel, guided the car safely onto the grass verge to bring it to a stop, and immediately contacted emergency services. Neither Zac nor his mother were injured.
About a month later, on Jan. 14, West Mercia Police Chief Constable Richard Cooper presented Zac with the Chief Constable Commendation at the force's headquarters in Hindlip, Worcestershire.
West Mercia PoliceZac Howells (center) and his mom, Nicola Crump, with West Mercia Police’s Richard Cooper
"I am delighted to present Zac with this award today following what must have been an extremely frightening experience for such a young boy," Cooper said. "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."
The Chief Constable Commendation recognizes people who demonstrate exceptional bravery and actions that go beyond what is normally expected. Police said Zac's quick thinking removed the immediate danger to his family and other road users that day.
What happened next: Emergency responders attended the scene after Zac called for help. The family has since been supported by local services, and police used the presentation to publicly thank Zac for his courage and composure.
Zac’s actions were widely praised as an example of calm, practical thinking under pressure — and as a reminder of the importance of staying prepared for medical emergencies while travelling.
Help us improve.
