RCMP member rescues teen from river
On August 30, 2010, at about 4:30pm, Bloodvein RCMP were dispatched to the ferry dock at Bloodvein, Manitoba.
Initial reports were that a 17-year-old male, possibly intoxicated, was attempting to jump off of the ferry in mid-river. The ferry captain turned the vessel around and returned to the dock where he was met by two members of the Bloodvein Detachment.
When police attempted to speak to the youth, he backed away and without warning jumped over the side of the ferry into the river.
An RCMP Corporal, wearing an inflatable life vest, immediately leapt over the side and into the water to rescue the boy.
The water was about 8 or 9 feet deep, and the pair were about 20 feet from shore.
Corporal Kevin Elliott reported ” I only had one chance to get to him as he appeared to be sinking. I jumped in right away and was just able to catch his clothing. We were well over our heads in the water, and I had to swim with the boy to pull him to shore”. The second RCMP member on shore was able to assist in pulling Corporal Elliott and the boy from the water.
The youth was taken to the local nursing station for observation and was reported in good condition, and uninjured. He was later released from police custody without charge. It was later discovered that he had changed his mind about the ferry trip and wanted to try and swim cross river and back to the dock.
No other persons were reported involved or injured in relation to this incident.
Cst. Miles Hiebert
RCMP Media relations
Tel:(204)983-8497
