A West Long Branch, New Jersey, police officer’s quick thinking and bravery saved an 11-year-old boy from the frigid waters of Franklin Lake on Monday, February 3rd. The dramatic rescue, captured on bodycam footage, unfolded after the boy fell through thin ice while attempting a shortcut home. This act of heroism highlights the dedication and risks taken by law enforcement officers every day.
A Shortcut Gone Wrong: Boy Plunges Through Thin Ice
Around 2:41 p.m., a call came in to the West Long Branch Police Department reporting a child had fallen through the ice on Franklin Lake. According to a Facebook post by the department, the young boy, whose name has not been released, decided to walk across the frozen lake to save time on his way home. Tragically, the warming temperatures had weakened the ice, causing it to crack under his weight. He plunged into the freezing water, estimated to be about 6 feet deep.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(399×0:401×2)/West-Long-Branch-Police-020625-3-f618c0e27b7645aa80e2b05696589e7e.jpg)
Although the boy was able to stand in the shallow water, the icy temperatures rapidly sapped his strength. The West Long Branch Emergency Medical Services reported that the air temperature was a deceptively mild 49 degrees, but the water temperature was significantly lower, posing a severe risk of hypothermia. The combination of cold water and exhaustion made it impossible for him to climb out on his own.
Officer Brosonski’s Swift Response: A Race Against Time
Patrolman Dave Brosonski, the first officer to arrive at the scene, immediately assessed the situation. Finding the child stranded approximately 75 yards from the shore, Brosonski knew time was of the essence. The boy’s chances of survival diminished with each passing minute in the freezing water. With the assistance of a rope provided by a quick-thinking bystander, Brosonski cautiously made his way across the treacherous ice. The rope served as a lifeline, ensuring the officer’s safety while he attempted the rescue.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(399×0:401×2)/West-Long-Branch-Police-020625-2-2ed7d2edc55248d8adc409aca9038195.jpg)
Brosonski’s training as a water rescue instructor at the Monmouth County Police Academy proved invaluable. He methodically approached the boy, securing him and slowly pulling him back towards the shore. Bodycam footage released by WLS-TV shows the harrowing moments of the rescue. The boy, visibly distressed, can be heard crying and expressing fear of getting into trouble. Officers reassured him, emphasizing their role as helpers and assuring him he would receive medical attention.
A Community’s Gratitude and a Hero’s Humility
The boy was in the water for an estimated five minutes, a short time that could have had tragic consequences. Thankfully, he was rescued without significant injuries. As a precaution, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. The swift actions of Officer Brosonski, coupled with the assistance of the nearby resident, undoubtedly saved the boy’s life.
During a press conference, Brosonski humbly downplayed his heroism, stating, “I feel it was my job. I would have gone in no matter what for anyone, whether I was working or not working.” This sentiment reflects the dedication and selflessness often exhibited by first responders.
The Dangers of Thin Ice: A Reminder of Winter Safety
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of thin ice, particularly during periods of fluctuating temperatures. While the air temperature may seem warm enough, ice on lakes and ponds can be deceptively thin and unstable. Experts warn against walking or playing on frozen bodies of water unless it has been deemed safe by local authorities. The four inches of ice that had formed on Franklin Lake after previous weeks of freezing temperatures had been significantly weakened by the warmer weather, making it unsafe to traverse. This near-tragedy underscores the importance of heeding safety warnings and exercising caution around frozen water. The heroic actions of Officer Brosonski prevented a potential tragedy and highlight the importance of community vigilance and preparedness during winter months. The incident serves as a powerful reminder that even seemingly benign shortcuts can have life-threatening consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ice Safety
Q: How can I tell if ice is safe to walk on?
A: Never assume ice is safe. Contact local authorities or park rangers for information on ice conditions. Clear, blue ice is generally stronger than cloudy or gray ice.
Q: What should I do if someone falls through the ice?
A: Call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to rescue the person yourself, as you could also fall through the ice. Try to reach the person with a long object, such as a branch or rope, and encourage them to stay calm.
Q: What precautions should I take when near frozen water?
A: Always supervise children near frozen water. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear to prevent slips and falls. Let someone know your plans and expected return time if venturing near frozen bodies of water. Carry a cell phone for emergencies.
