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Man who falls into Gastineau Channel rescued by people who jump in with life ring, emergency responders
- Mark Sabbatini
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Victim taken to Seattle hospital after CCFR, Coast Guard, and CBJ Docks and Habors coordinate rescue with people who jumped in water to help
By Mark Sabbatini
Juneau Independent
A man who fell into the water in Gastineau Channel near Marine Park on Saturday night was rescued by three people who jumped in with a life ring, with the man hospitalized and then transported to Seattle for further medical care, according to officials.
The man went into the water shortly before 9 p.m., with witnesses calling 911 and reporting he had either fallen or jumped in the channel, according to a Capital City Fire/Rescue press release.
"Before emergency responders arrived, three Good Samaritans entered the water with a life ring and assisted the man until rescuers could reach them," the press release issued by CCFR on Sunday states. "Their willingness to act during a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation played an important role in the rescue."
CCFR rescue swimmers reached the group in the water and coordinated efforts to bring the people to shore. A U.S. Coast Guard rescue boat was dispatched to bring the victim and CCFR rescue swimmers to the Coast Guard dock. The victim was taken to Bartlett Regional Hospital.
The man was subsequently taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, according to a family member in a message to the Juneau Independent.
CCFR Chief Tom Hatley, in a prepared statement, said the coordinated response between the fire department, Coast Guard, and city’s Docks and Harbors department was vital to a successful response to the people in the water.
"Our members acted calmly, decisively and without hesitation," he said. "Their actions demonstrated the value of our training and the professionalism and dedication they bring to this community every day."
“I also want to recognize the three Good Samaritans who saw someone in trouble and took action, as well as our partners with the U.S. Coast Guard, whose rapid response was instrumental in the success of this rescue. This was truly a team effort.”
• Contact Mark Sabbatini at editor@juneauindependent.com or (907) 957-2306.
