On Sunday, June 2, 2024, officers from the Gladewater Police Department, accompanied by the Gladewater Fire Department, sprang into action following reports of a female juvenile being swept into a large drainage ditch near Bumble Bee Park. The incident occurred amidst a severe rainstorm, heightening the urgency of the situation.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers conducted a thorough search and spoke with witnesses who confirmed seeing the female fall into the fast-moving water. Recognizing the perilous conditions, with rising water levels, the responders reached out to the Longview Fire Department's Swiftwater search and rescue/dive team for specialized assistance.
Concerned citizens gathered at the scene, with some reporting searches for their own loved ones. During interviews, officers encountered a mother searching for her boys, only to discover that the reported juvenile was her daughter, safe and sound at home.
The rescued female, a 13-year-old, recounted slipping into the water while observing the rushing currents. She described being carried downstream to an unfamiliar area before making her way back home. Medical personnel evaluated her condition, and she was subsequently transported to UT Hospital in Tyler, TX, for further treatment.
"This incident serves as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our local emergency responders and the critical role they play in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Longview Fire Department for their immediate assistance during this operation.", said Chief Kyle Ready in a statement.
