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Bodycam Shows N.J. Officers Break Through Ice to Rescue 13-Year-Old From Pond

Police issue renewed warnings about unsafe ice conditions.

Overview

  • A 13-year-old fell through ice in a Woolwich Township retention pond around 4:30 p.m. Sunday, prompting a police rescue.
  • Body-camera video shows Sgt. Joseph Rieger crawling onto thin ice before it gave way as he reached the teen.
  • Corporal Steven Spithaler and Patrolman Michael Scambia entered the water to help pull the boy to safety after rope throws failed.
  • All reached shore safely, and the boy was taken to a hospital for evaluation where he is expected to be fine.
  • Officers reported the ice was only a few inches thick and urged residents to stay off lakes, ponds, and retention basins.