Sheriff’s sergeant pulls child from frozen pond in Washington County

An 8-year-old boy was rescued from an icy pond in New Harmony by Sgt. Thompson, of the Washington County Sheriff's Office on Dec. 25. This photo shows the path Thompson traveled to get to the child near the far side of the grass growing in the pond. Thompson broke through the ice with his arms to reach the boy. Photo: WCSO

NEW HARMONY, Utah, Dec. 25, 2017 (Gephardt Daily) — An 8-year-old boy was pulled from a frozen pond shortly after 5 p.m. Monday, after he fell through the ice while chasing a dog.

A news release from Washington County Sheriff’s spokesman Lt. David Crouse states that deputies were dispatched on a report of a drowning in the 3100 East block of 2500 South in New Harmony.

Another child saw the incident, realized he was unable to help the boy and ran to notify the boy’s parents.

Intermountain Healthcare’s helicopter was requested to assist local emergency medical personnel and the Washington County Search and Rescue Dive Team, the release says.

WCSO Sgt. Thompson was one of the first to arrive on scene.

Thompson knew it was essential to rescue the child as quickly as possible, and he “made the personal decision” to try to reach the child without the aid of specialized equipment.

According to the news release, “Thompson stripped his police gear and immediately entered the water to locate the child. The area where the child was last seen was approximately 25 feet from the shoreline.

“Sergeant Thompson used his arms to punch through the ice, creating a pathway to the victim. Thompson was able to locate the victim under the ice and bring him back to shore where awaiting medical personnel began treating him.”

The child was transported by helicopter to Dixie Regional Medical Center and was still undergoing treatment at 8 p.m. No information was available on his condition.

Thompson also was taken to Dixie Regional with symptoms of hypothermia as well as cuts and scrapes sustained while breaking the ice in the pond.

1 COMMENT

  1. Sergeant Thompson it’s definitely more then his uniform requires him to be. He is a compassionate human being that realizes everyone should help out their fellow human beings when they can. I’m from Jonesboro Arkansas. I read this article on Facebook. I felt compelled to leave a comment for Sgt.Thompson. Prayers for healing and a speedy recovery for the two of you. Sgt.Thompson, you are a true super hero. No need for a disguise or costume, your badge and uniform say it all. Thank you for your service and dedication.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here