Emergency Personnel Respond to Two Ice Rescues in Woodbury, Urge Caution on Thin Ice
WOODBURY, MINNESOTA—On Monday, December 2, Woodbury emergency responders were called to two water emergencies as winter temperatures created dangerous conditions on local lakes.
The first occurred at Wilmes Lake at 11:15 a.m., where an adult male fell through thin ice on the south end of the lake near Schooner Way and Wynstone Drive. Emergency crews quickly responded and successfully rescued the individual.Their condition is not known right now, but once we know more, we will provide an update.
Later this afternoon, at Markgrafs Lake, another 911 call reported a child had fallen through the ice around 4:29 p.m. Multiple emergency agencies, including law enforcement, EMS, firefighters, water rescue teams, divers, and air support, arrived swiftly to begin rescue operations.
Initial reports suggest that concerned bystanders ventured onto the ice in an attempt to rescue the victim, only to fall through themselves. Emergency personnel rescued one person, who was transported to Regions Hospital. Their age, gender, and condition remain unknown. A second individual, a teenage boy, had fallen through the ice before responders arrived and was recovered by divers after a prolonged search. He was also transported to Regions Hospital. Officials have not disclosed the condition of either patient.
Following the incident, authorities determined no additional individuals were involved and believed the second victim recovered was the initial person to fall through the ice.
Woodbury Public Safety expressed gratitude for the collaboration of multiple agencies, including the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Cottage Grove Public Safety, Oakdale Police and Fire, Hudson Fire, Stillwater Fire, Minnesota State Air Patrol, and joint dive teams.
Public safety officials urge residents to avoid walking or skating on lakes and ponds until the ice is firmly frozen, as thin ice poses serious risks to life. As temperatures fluctuate in the coming days, residents are encouraged to prioritize safety and stay off untested ice surfaces.
Cover Photo Provided by Erica Nilsson on Unsplash
Written by: Will Wight
