Crews Rescue Five Adults, Child From River In NW Iowa

Des Moines River near Estherville, Iowa

Photo: Estherville, Iowa Fire Department

(Estherville, IA) -- Six people are okay after a dramatic river rescue in Estherville in northwest Iowa. A kayak flipped over in the Des Moines River near Estherville Sunday, trapping a small child in a log jam.

The Estherville Fire Department says the current was pulling the child under water, but a woman was able to hold onto the child, keeping the child's face above water until firefighters arrive and cut the child's lifejacket free. Firefighters brought the child and five adults to safety using a rescue boat, along with help from the DNR. Individuals were checked out on scene, two required additional treatment at Avera Holy Family Hospital in Estherville.

Additional information from Estherville FD.

The Estherville Fire Department was assisted by Emmet County Sheriff’s Officer, Emmet County Dispatcher, Estherville Police Department, Estherville Ambulance Service, Iowa State DNR and Iowa State Patrol

There were three drones on site. One from each of the following agencies, Estherville PD, Emmet County Sheriff’s Office and Iowa State Patrol.

Without the great partnerships with all agencies involved, this rescue could have turned out very different. The Estherville Fire Department thanks you for your assistance.


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