NEW LONDON, CT — Five New London police officers have been formally commended after rescuing two unconscious people from the Thames River early Sunday morning.
Police Chief Brian M. Wright recognized the officers Monday, praising their actions during the July 26 rescue near the pier at the end of the Bank Street Connector.
According to police, officers on downtown patrol were alerted by a bystander at about 1:43 a.m. that two people were in the water.
Related: 2 People Drowning As New London Police Officers Rush To Rescue Them
Lt. Joshua Bergeson and Officer Joshua Barker entered the river and pulled a man and a woman from the water. Police said neither victim was conscious or alert when they were rescued.
Officers Juan Hernandez, Amanda Battey and Nicholas Alvarado helped pull both victims onto shore and assisted with the emergency response.
The New London Fire Department responded, provided emergency medical care and took both people to the hospital. Police said the two remain under medical care.
Wright said the officers' actions prevented a tragedy.
"Lieutenant Bergeson and Officer Barker's willingness to place themselves in harm's way to save the lives of two strangers represents the absolute highest standard of public service," Wright said in a statement.
He also credited Hernandez, Battey and Alvarado for their role in the rescue, saying water rescues require teamwork and that their assistance was critical to the successful outcome.
Wright also thanked the New London Fire Department and Chief Vernon Skau for the department's rapid response and medical care.
"This incident is a powerful example of the interagency partnership that keeps our community safe," Wright said.
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