ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — When they saw a young girl in distress, they took action – and saved her life, authorities say.
The Essex County Sheriff's Office has released details about a water rescue involving a child at Branch Brook Park last weekend. The county-run park is located in Newark and Belleville.
Sheriff's officers responded to the park around 2:50 p.m. on Sunday after getting a call about a 5-year-old girl in distress in the water behind the boathouse.
Authorities said two people at the scene rushed into the water and rescued the girl, then immediately started CPR. When they arrived at the scene, police took over CPR duties – until the child eventually started breathing again.
Emergency responders transported the girl to University Hospital. She was reported to be alert and conscious, police said.
"I am deeply grateful for the swift actions of the individuals who came to her aid, as well as the professionalism and dedication of our officers and our EMS partners," Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones said.
"Their coordinated response was instrumental in saving a young girl's life," Jones said. "We are thankful for this positive outcome and continue to wish her and her family a full and speedy recovery."
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