06/15/2026
Our Water Rescue Team member injured during rescue operations at Springfield Lake on Sunday has been released from the hospital.
“I am proud of the response by our Water Rescue Team and members of the fire department to this tragic incident, and thankful that all of our firefighters are safe and on the path to recovery from their injuries,” said Fire Chief David Pennington.
Thirty members of the SFD responded to the incident on Sunday, along with approximately 25 other responders from fire service, law enforcement and EMS agencies.
“I want to thank our emergency response partners at the Springfield Greene County 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Department, the Springfield, MO Police Department, Greene County Sheriff's Office, Battlefield Fire Protection District and Logan Rogersville Fire Protection District and their water rescue teams, CoxHealth and CoxHealth EMS, and the Missouri Dept. of Conservation for their assistance during the emergency response and search and recovery efforts,” said Chief Pennington.
The Tailwaters Access below the dam at Springfield Lake remains closed to facilitate fire department operations.
“Our search efforts have included shore-based searches on foot and using UTVs, a water-based search using boats, and flights with SPD and SFD drones, to include use of thermal capabilities, covering nearly a mile and a half of the river,” said Chief Pennington.
SFD members have been rotating on scene throughout the day and will remain until dark. Efforts are anticipated to resume Tuesday morning.
“I have the utmost respect for the men and women of the Springfield Fire Department, who courageously run toward danger to save lives,” said Mayor Jeff Schrag. "Sunday’s water rescue operation at Lake Springfield was heroic. We all owe our water rescue team and those supporting them a huge debt of gratitude. We wish those injured a quick recovery.”
City Manager David Cameron shared his gratitude in a message to members of the Springfield Fire Department, Logan-Rogersville and Battlefield fire protection districts Monday afternoon.
“… After reflecting on yesterday's events, I am reminded that emergency response is more than a profession; it is a calling. I had the opportunity to witness not only the rescue operation itself, but also the remarkable cooperation among agencies and the quiet acts of service that often go unnoticed. I saw firefighters supporting one another, standing by family and injured sisters and brothers, and even stepping forward to cover shifts so others could remain where they were needed most. Those moments spoke just as loudly as the rescue effort itself… I am proud that your efforts helped bring one victim to safety. At the same time, my thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of the three individuals who are still unaccounted for. As search and recovery efforts continue, we are reminded of the profound human toll of this tragedy and the difficult work you are called to perform on behalf of our community.”
Water Rescue Team photo not from this incident.
