Police Officers Rescue Swimmer In Distress In West Haven

WEST HAVEN, CT — A West Haven police officer swam around 100 yards into the water off Bradley Point to rescue a swimmer in distress Sunday afternoon. A bystander captured the dramatic rescue on video. The officer was credited with making a critical decision during the “life-threatening situation,” according to officials.

The incident happened around 1 p.m. in the Bradley Point shore area when police received several 911 calls for a person-in-distress and then a report of a person in the water struggling to stay afloat.

Police said all shore patrol units and area beat cars were dispatched to the area. Several units arrived at the same time and determined the man in the water was in “immediate danger of going under if he was not given assistance,” officials said.

“Given the life-threatening situation at hand, one of our Officers made the critical decision to remove his gear and then entered the water from the rocks to make his way toward the distressed male party,” police wrote in a post on Facebook. “He swam out for a considerable distance, approximately 100 yards, before making it to the male who was clearly struggling to stay afloat by the rock jetty. The first Officer then began to drag the male back towards the shoreline while swimming against the current.

“While making their way back to shore a second Officer entered the water and joined up with the two to assist with the rescue. Upon making it to shore the male was pulled up the rocks and assisted up the uneven shoreline by Officers waiting on scene. The FD and AMR arrived and treated the male on scene.”

Police said the officers who assisted in the rescue weren’t injured.

Police also offered the following water safety reminder:

“Always be mindful of the power of the water in the sound including changing tides and undercurrents. Know your limits and even if you are a strong swimmer go out with a buddy or swim where you can be seen by others. We want everyone to enjoy the beach and the warm water but please do so SAFELY.”

To see video of the rescue, visit the West Haven Police Department’s Facebook page here (note: the video does include some swearing).