A tragic incident unfolded in New York as a 41-year-old ice fisherman lost his life after falling through a frozen pond. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation reported that the incident occurred at Basswood Pond in Otsego County, New York. The ice gave way under the weight of the two brothers, prompting a dog-walker to immediately call 911 for help.
Forest ranger Nate Laymon was only a minute away from the scene when he received the distress call. Rushing to the pond, Laymon quickly located the older brother, who was treading water and desperately searching for his younger sibling. With the ice dangerously thin, Laymon carefully made his way onto the frozen surface, approximately one inch thick. Using a throw bag and a rope, he was able to pull the older brother to safety.
The rescue operation did not end there, as Laymon then turned his attention to finding the younger brother who was still trapped in the freezing pond. After scanning the water, Laymon spotted the reflective coat worn by the younger brother and successfully brought him to the surface. However, the process of getting him out of the water and onto the ice shelf proved challenging and exhausting for Laymon.
With the assistance of other rescuers, the submerged man was eventually brought ashore. Emergency medical technicians immediately began CPR, but tragically, the younger brother was declared dead later that night. The older brother, however, was treated and released, thanks to the swift response and efforts of the rescuers.
Forest ranger Nate Laymon expressed his pride in the rescue team’s efforts, highlighting their determination to give the younger brother a fighting chance at survival. He commended their fantastic job and acknowledged the tireless work they put into the rescue operation.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of ice fishing and the importance of caution when venturing onto frozen bodies of water. Authorities continue to urge individuals to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
