How were the three men rescued from Jamaica Bay?

The three men were rescued from Jamaica Bay by an NYPD helicopter after falling through the ice.

Where were the rescued men taken for medical attention?

Two of the men were taken to Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, and one was taken to St. John's Episcopal Hospital, all conscious and alert.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Helicopter Plucks Trio from Icy Jamaica Bay Waters

Helicopter Plucks Trio from Icy Jamaica Bay Waters

Q: What challenges did first responders face during the Queens ice rescue?

During the rescue, one FDNY member and an NYPD scuba diver also fell into the water while trying to help the victims.

7 Feb

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Summary

Three young men rescued by helicopter after falling through ice.
Rescue occurred Friday afternoon in Jamaica Bay, Far Rockaway.
First responders also experienced difficulties during the rescue operation.

Helicopter Plucks Trio from Icy Jamaica Bay Waters

Three 22-year-old men were rescued from the frigid waters of Jamaica Bay on Friday afternoon after falling through the ice. The dramatic incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. near Norton Drive in Far Rockaway, Queens. Witnesses reported seeing the young men walking on the frozen bay before they fell through the ice and became submerged.

An NYPD helicopter, followed by FDNY responders, arrived to conduct the rescue. The operation was fraught with peril, as one FDNY member and an NYPD scuba diver also fell into the water while attempting to reach the victims. Video captured the methodical rescue efforts as the victims were pulled from the icy depths.

One of the rescued men had been in the water for nearly 40 minutes, raising concerns about hypothermia. All three victims were conscious and alert when brought to safety. Two were transported to Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital and one to St. John's Episcopal Hospital. Neighbors noted that the men had been venturing onto the ice for fun in the past week, despite warnings.