LYNN — The Fire Department posted the following information on Facebook on Thursday:
“At approximately 7:30 p.m. last night, Engine Co. 10 was dispatched for an unknown type of object on the ice that was seen by a passerby on Flax Pond near the intersection of Euclid Avenue and Maple Street. Dispatch indicated that it was dark in that area, and the caller could not tell what it was. It was not moving, and when they attempted to call to it, there was no reply. Oftentimes, kids playing (will) throw objects out on the ice in that area as they walk home from school.
“When Engine Co. 10 arrived, they were able to shine their scene light out on the ice. At that time, they spotted a body in the water that had fallen through the ice approximately 30 feet from shore. Engine Co. 10 Captain Michael Carmody immediately called for a water rescue response. Ladder Co. 4 with the boat, H-1, Medic 1, C-4, and an Atlantic EMS unit were dispatched to assist. Medic Co. 1 arrived within a minute, as they were returning from a call.
“Unable to wait for those resources, Capt. Carmody donned a life vest, grabbed the water rescue rope, and made his way onto the ice, which was approximately 2 inches thick where he was. He attempted to throw the rope to the victim, who was now flailing half underwater as the ice was breaking around him. But the rope was not long enough. Lynn Police Officer Ioan Rasinariu arrived with a life rescue ring. Tying the ropes together, they started to throw them to the victim, who, after a couple of attempts, was able to get a hold of the ring. Working together, Engine Co. 10, Medic Co. 1, and LPD were able to successfully remove the victim from the water.
“The male patient, who is approximately 33 years old, was immediately treated on scene by Medic Co. 1 and transported to Salem Hospital. It is unknown why or how long the person was on the ice.
“It is imperative to understand that no ice is considered safe, no matter how cold it gets. Without a doubt, if it weren’t for the quick action of all involved, including the passerby who spotted what turned out to be a human life and called 911, then this would’ve been a fatality.”
