Girl saved from river

ONTONAGON — A young girl was rescued from the frigid waters of the Ontonagon River on Friday.

According to Michigan State Police from the Wakefield Post, the girl slipped off the boardwalk at Elmer Park in the village of Ontonagon and fell into the river.

MSP Sgt. Glenn Gauthier said because of the ice build-up on the shore, the girl was unable to get out of the river without assistance.

“It is suspected the victim was in the river for several minutes before assistance arrived. A citizen walking his dog found the female semi-conscious and was able to call 911,” Gauthier said.

Gauthier said the girl, around 10 to 12 years old, was experiencing severe hypothermia symptoms and it was necessary to get the patient immediate medical attention.

The girl was transported to Aspirus Hospital in Ontonagon by trooper John Kelly, of the MSP’s Ontonagon detachment, in his patrol vehicle, where she received immediate medical attention.

“At the time of receiving medical attention, the patient had a dangerously low internal body temperature. Medical personnel advised if it was not for the quick response of the citizen and Kelly, the patient would not have survived much longer,” Gauthier said.

A news release issued by the MSP Wakefield Post did not include the name of the girl, nor the dog walker hero.

—Ralph Ansami