Morris Officer and Civilian Honored for Heroic River Rescue

URGENT UPDATE: A Morris police officer and a civilian have been recognized for their heroic actions that saved a man’s life during a critical incident on the Illinois River on August 2, 2025. Officer Nick Pampinella and local visitor Jason Knapp acted swiftly and decisively when a man experiencing a mental health crisis entered the river, creating a life-threatening situation.

During a press conference, Morris Fire Chief Tracey Steffes emphasized the urgency of the rescue, stating, “The difference between life and death is seconds.” The rapid response of Pampinella and Knapp was crucial as they dove into the treacherous waters to retrieve the struggling individual.

According to Police Chief Alicia Steffes, the department received a call about the incident at approximately 8:00 PM that evening. “The subject had entered the river and began moving to open water,” she explained. Upon arrival, Officer Pampinella attempted to negotiate with the man, who was uncooperative. Drawing on his experience as a former lifeguard, Pampinella swam approximately 300 feet into the river to reach the man, with Knapp providing essential assistance.

Steffes detailed the perilous conditions, noting, “The bank is really dangerous, even when you’re not trying to rescue somebody.” The rapid and coordinated actions of Pampinella and Knapp ensured the man was safely brought back to shore without harm.

After the dramatic rescue, Pampinella changed into a dry uniform and completed the rest of his shift, embodying the dedication of law enforcement. In recognition of their bravery, Knapp received a certificate of appreciation and a medal, while Pampinella was awarded a silver star for bravery and a framed certificate.

Chief Tracey Steffes lauded their quick thinking, stating, “I witnessed these gentlemen that night in the water… there’s a difference, and if you want to make a difference, you have to act quickly.” His statement underscores the critical importance of immediate action in life-threatening situations.

This recognition not only highlights the individual heroism of Pampinella and Knapp but also serves as a reminder of the risks faced by emergency responders and the community’s role in supporting one another during crises. The City of Morris is proud to honor these heroes, whose actions made a profound impact on a life that could have been lost.

As more details about the incident emerge, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and aware of mental health resources available in the community. The actions of Pampinella and Knapp serve as an inspiring example of how courage and quick action can lead to miraculous outcomes in life-or-death situations.