Search For Missing Sled Riders In Bridgewater Frozen Brook By Police, Firefighters

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A search for possible missing sled riders in a frozen brook in Bridgewater turned out to be unfounded.

On Monday around 3:30 p.m., a hiker in Washington Valley Park reported finding a sled next to the East Branch Middle Brook near the parking lot off Gilbridge Road, said Bill Rose with the Martinsville Volunteer Fire Department to Patch.

Footprints were also found near the sleds and indented hole in the ice.

Bridgewater Police called in the Martinsville Fire Department who along with Warren Township Fire and Far Hills-The fire departments came out to help.

Martinsville Firefighters had their swift water team members go into the Brook to check under the ice, which the water was about waist-deep, said Rose.

Police also called in the Somerset County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit to help search on the ground.

Emergency responders were in the frigid cold for about 2.5 to 3 hours, with a large portion in the water checking along the Brook and downstream.

No missing reports of children were reported and police even canvassed nearby homes with negative results, said Rose.

"We approached this with the utmost caution and concern," said Rose. "We did what we felt was appropriate for any possibility of a lost child."

In the end, the search did not find anyone and it turned into a pretty comprehensive practice drill for firefighters.

"We are thrilled we didn't have a recovery," said Rose. "At these temperatures, it only takes 10 to 15 minutes before bad things can happen in the water."

The Martinsville Volunteer Fire Department is always looking for volunteers. If interested in volunteering or for more information visit martinsvillefire.org or call 732-469-1955 or facebook.com/Station43. Or stop by the fire station at 1912 Washington Walley Road on Mondays at 7:30 p.m.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.