06/10/2026
Yesterday afternoon, HFD’s swift water rescue team was called to the single-lane bridge off Madison 5430 in Crosses* to an individual whom had been swept into the middle of the river from the underlying swift currents from recent flood waters. On scene, the crew was presented with a distressed swimmer, fighting against the rapids to stay standing and not be swept away into the White River. (For reference, swift water at that depth can generate upwards of 500lbs of force, depending on the speed)
Utilizing the wedge formation, with a rescue swimmer in the downstream position, crews began the task of meticulously moving across the river, against the current, to safely secure the swimmer and bring her back to family and waiting medical crews.
Extremely grateful to everyone on scene who assisted with initial stabilization by lowering a rope and life vest. Thank you Madison County Sheriff’s Deputies, Madison County EMS, St. Paul and Wesley Fire, and DEM Greg Wheeler for ensuring a a smooth scene.
This was a valuable lesson on the powerful nature of swift water and the deceptive dangers it can pose.
