Prague runner honored after jumping into Vltava to rescue police officers

A Prague runner who jumped into the Vltava to help rescue two police officers has been officially recognized for his bravery. Kryštof Topinka received an award from Czech Police President Martin Vondrášek and Prague Police Director Petr Matějček following the incident on Oct. 10.

The recognition was announced by Czech police on Wednesday, nearly two weeks after a police vehicle skidded on tram tracks, crashed through the railing of Prague's Hlávkův Bridge, and plunged into the river.

Topinka was out for his regular morning run when he witnessed the accident shortly before 8 a.m.

He rushed down to the embankment and entered the water, where a male and female officer had managed to escape the sinking vehicle but were struggling in their heavy, waterlogged uniforms.

Topinka helped both officers reach a retaining wall. With assistance from bystanders, he lifted the female officer to a ladder and helped bring her to safety.

The male officer, who had been injured, required a different route out of the water. Topinka helped guide him toward the lower embankment, where other rescuers assisted in pulling him out.

Both officers were taken to hospital following the incident.

After helping the officers, Topinka left the scene without providing his name, prompting police to launch a public appeal to identify the man they had nicknamed "Mr. Runner."

He was eventually identified and personally thanked by senior police officials.

Speaking to CNN Prima NEWS, Topinka explained that he had been running with a friend when they saw the police vehicle fall from the bridge.

In an unusual ending to the morning's events, he revealed that after helping the officers to safety, he put his sweatshirt back on and continued his run.

Both officers have since been released from hospital, while the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation.