Urgent Rescue in Port Stanley: Beachgoers Save Man from Drowning

URGENT UPDATE: Beachgoers and first responders in Port Stanley sprang into action Friday afternoon as a man was found submerged and unresponsive in the water at Little Beach. Witnesses report that the dramatic rescue unfolded swiftly, highlighting the community’s quick response to a life-threatening situation.

Around 3:00 PM, Andrea VanWilligen was enjoying the beach with her nephew when she noticed a man had slipped off his flotation device and was not moving. “I noticed he was submerged under water and very unresponsive,” VanWilligen told CTV News. Immediately realizing the urgency, she called out for help while instructing bystanders to dial 911.

Within moments, several beachgoers rushed to assist, and three individuals trained in CPR began working on the man. “There was actually three people that were CPR certified that started working on the gentleman immediately,” VanWilligen recounted. The man’s wife, who had stepped away for a stroll down the beach, returned to find a group of strangers heroically attempting to save her husband. “When she came back, she was incredibly thankful that all the pedestrians were working so hard to help her husband,” VanWilligen added.

Emergency services arrived on the scene within approximately ten minutes, taking over the rescue efforts. The man was subsequently transported to the hospital by EMS. As of now, his condition remains unknown.

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community vigilance and preparedness. Local authorities commend the actions of those who responded, emphasizing the impact of quick thinking and teamwork in emergency situations.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as we learn more about the man’s condition and the heroic efforts of those who rushed to help.