OPP officer hailed for saving snowmobilers from icy waters
Despite being off-duty, he rescued husband and wife with `selfless actions'
A young Ontario Provincial Police officer is being hailed for his work in saving a pair of snowmobilers who recently fell into Round Lake, about 200 kilometres north of Ottawa.
According to a news release, Const. Jared Moore of the OPP'S Upper Ottawa Valley detachment was off-duty and out for a family walk on Feb. 24 when he saw two snowmobiles attempting to cross a section of ice over open water near the mouth of the Bonnechere River.
“While the first machine made it across, the second plunged into the frigid water along with its driver,” a news release said.
“The rider of the first machine could be seen attempting a rescue.”
The OPP said the two riders were a husband and wife from western Ontario.
“Moore worked with the husband in attempts to rescue the woman from the water.”
But as the wife began to lose her ability to move in the icy water, the husband jumped in to assist her.
Moore was able to “pull both individuals from the water,” the OPP said.
He provided first aid until Renfrew County paramedics and other first responders arrived. The snowmobilers were transported to hospital for potential hypothermia.
“Later that day, Const. Moore, still off-duty, picked up the couple at the hospital, drove them back to Round Lake and assisted in loading up the snowmobile that was still on the ice,” the release added.
“I want to thank Const. Moore for his selfless actions,” OPP Superintendent Darryl Sigouin said in the release.
Moore began with the OPP in the fall of 2021.
“Despite being off-duty, Jared didn't hesitate to jump into action, exhibiting the traits and dedication that exemplify the commitment and dedication of being a member of the Ontario Provincial Police,” Sigouin said.
Moore worked with the husband in attempts to rescue the woman from the water.