EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — The East Brunswick Police Department rescued a suicidal individual from Farrington Lake on April 10.
Police received a call at approximately 6:14 a.m. from an individual who stated, “Thank you for everything,” before the call disconnected.
Communications personnel determined the individual’s location in the woods near the Farrington Lake dam in Bicentennial Park.
Patrolmen Matthew Anderson, Dana Ferrero, George Kokinakos, Joe Whalen, Michael Miszkiewicz and Jordan Bachman responded and began searching for the individual.
Officers found the person partially submerged in the lake.
Patrolman Kokinakos attempted to engage the individual in dialogue.
The person continued moving deeper into the water, submerging themselves up to their neck.
Patrolmen Miszkiewicz and Whalen entered the water, secured the individual and waded with them until water rescue resources arrived.
Patrolman David Methner and members of East Brunswick Brookview Volunteer Fire Company responded with a rescue boat and brought the individual aboard.
The person was transported to Robert Wood Johnson emergency medical personnel for evaluation and transport to the hospital.
Patrolmen Miszkiewicz and Whalen were evaluated by emergency medical personnel for possible hypothermia due to entering the freezing water.
Chief Frank LoSacco stated the officers demonstrated exceptional teamwork, rapid response and unwavering commitment to preserving life.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, support is available 24 hours a day through 988.
