Fairview Township, PA – This morning at just after 8:30 AM, Fairview Fire and Rescue and Lake Shore were dispatched for a reported swift water rescue in the vicinity of Dutch Road. In addition, Lake City Fire Company and Engine 925 from Millcreek were also dispatched and supported operations on scene. Initial reports advised of a fisherman trapped in a log jam along the south side of the north set of railroad tracks. The individual was reportedly not wearing a personal flotation device.

Upon arrival, Fairview crews accessed the area by traveling approximately a quarter mile east along the tracks before reaching the creek, where one victim was confirmed in the water. For responder safety and due to the proximity of apparatus to the tracks, command requested that railroad traffic be halted. As crews worked their way in, they reported hearing screams, which helped them locate and make contact with the victim. It was later discovered that the 911 caller remained on the phone with Erie County Public Safety during the duration of the initial response. This helped first responders quickly located the individual which was found to be trapped by a large strainer (a buildup of logs, branches, and debris).

Rescue personnel quickly deployed a flotation device and rope to the victim while additional crews prepared technical rescue equipment. Mule-56 assisted by transporting equipment and personnel down the tracks. Lake City Fire’s inflatable boat was brought to the scene, inflated, and launched with two rescue technicians on board. The technicians reached the victim, extricated him from the strainer, and brought him safely to shore. Downstream safety teams were also deployed during the operation.

The victim was transferred to medical personnel and was then transported via Mule-56 to nearby ambulance for continued care and eventual transfer to nearby hospital.

Railroad traffic was suspended during the rescue and resumed once all emergency vehicles cleared the right-of-way. The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission is investigating the incident. The 911 caller, a companion of the victim, provided real-time updates that proved invaluable to the operation. No injuries were reported among responding personnel.

Special thanks to West County On Scene Correspondent Warren Anderson, whose support allows me to keep highlighting the great work of our local first responders while I’m at work or out of town.