On Father's Day, Game Warden Josey Branch exhibited incredible bravery and quick thinking when he rescued a small 1-year-old girl who had fallen into Lake Carl Blackwell. Branch, while checking fishing licenses at the crappie dock, witnessed the terrifying incident unfold before his eyes.
The incident occurred as families gathered to celebrate Father's Day at the popular fishing spot. The young girl, whose name has not been released, suddenly slipped backward between the dock's railing, plunging into the water below. Aware of the approximate depth in the area, estimated to be 13 feet, Branch swiftly assessed the situation.
Realizing that his life jacket would hinder his ability to reach the submerged child, Branch made the split-second decision to shed his life-saving gear, equipped with a Body Worn Camera capturing the dramatic events as they unfolded. Without hesitation, he plunged into the water, carrying his duty gear, including his sidearm and handcuffs.
Fortunately, the child's father, whose identity remains undisclosed, reacted with remarkable speed, jumping into the water simultaneously with Game Warden Branch. Their combined efforts proved vital in the race against time to save the girl's life.
As onlookers watched in shock, the water quickly closed in over the small child. However, through the coordinated efforts of Branch, the child's father, and the assistance of bystanders standing on the dock, they were able to retrieve the girl from the depths of the lake. Without sustaining any serious injuries, she was safely returned to her mother's arms.
Although the incident was not captured on video, the audio recording from Branch's Body Worn Camera captured the intensity and urgency that unfolded during those critical moments. The audio serves as a chilling reminder of the near-tragedy that was narrowly averted by the courageous actions of Warden Branch and the child's father.
