Irish Pub Workers, First Responders Save Man From Drowning In Camden Co.

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ — When a person screamed for help from the Delaware River, two employees at a nearby Irish pub sprung into action.

Police were dispatched at 12:10 a.m. Saturday for a water rescue at Freedom Pier in Gloucester City. The arriving officers found several good samaritans on the south side of the pier.

Mark Lewis, a city resident who works at Holy City Publick House — a bar and restaurant by the pier — was reaching into the water to hold onto the victim. His coworker, Jeannie Yaniak, had notified him about the screams for help.

Gloucester City Officers James Burkhardt and Michael Becker positioned themselves to grab the victim and keep his head above water, while Officer Sean Gartland ensured that they didn't fall into the river. Police secured a life vest around the victim.

City Firefighters Chris Ryan and Thomas Quinn III entered the water and secured the man until the arrival of Marine 5 — a local watercraft. The boat them took the victim to the Gloucester City Marina, where EMS personnel treated him.

He was brought to the hospital for further treatment.

Police Chief Brian Morrell commended the officers, firefighters and civilians who assisted in the rescue.