Bystanders Save Children From Near-Drowning Incident

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Two children are recovering at Riley Hospital after nearly drowning in a neighborhood lake, Indianapolis Fire Department officials report. IFD said 41-year-old Katarzyna (Kathy) Szurkiewicz was at a nearby playground in the Cold Spring Estates Subdivision Tuesday afternoon when she heard a girl screaming, indicating two children were in the lake and in trouble. IFD reports Szurkiewicz jumped in and swam out to rescue the nine-year-old boy and 12-year-old girl, taking them both back to shore while screaming for help. That's where they were met by a man who IFD says took the non-responsive boy and began CPR. IFD says the girl was conscious when she was brought to shore.

IFD crews were called just after 4 p.m. and arrived at the scene at 2820 Granada Circle North within five minutes. Officials say the boy regained consciousness and was quickly taken by medics to Riley, and his sister was also taken to the hospital after him.

IFD says the girl told firefighters her brother wanted to go swimming and got in the water despite her objections, leading her to go in after him.

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According to IFD, Szurkiewicz is a mother of four children who go to the nearby MTI school. She is a volunteer who assists with school dismissal and happened to be at the park helping with the kids.

"The bystanders actions clearly saved these two children from a fatal outcome," IFD Battalion Chief Rita Reith, said.

As of Wednesday morning IFD says both children are being observed at Riley Hospital, adding that with any near drowning, the first 24-48 hours are critical.

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