A large-scale emergency response was launched at White Bear Lake on Saturday afternoon after a person reportedly jumped from a pontoon boat and failed to resurface, prompting fears of a possible drowning.
The incident occurred near the intersection of Dellwood Road and Echo Street, a popular area for recreational boating and swimming during the summer months. Shortly after 3:00 p.m., witnesses on the scene contacted emergency services after they saw someone leap from a pontoon and disappear beneath the surface.
According to initial reports, the person did not re-emerge, and those on the boat were unable to locate them. Local dispatch immediately deployed rescue crews, including divers, water rescue specialists, paramedics, and law enforcement officers, who arrived within minutes.
Crews from the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Water Patrol, and the White Bear Lake Fire Department joined forces in a coordinated search-and-rescue effort. Rescue boats, sonar equipment, and divers were used to comb the area of the lake where the person was last seen.
A perimeter was also established to secure the scene and keep other boats and swimmers at a safe distance. After an intense search, the rescue team was able to locate and recover the individual from the water.
Officials have confirmed that the person was successfully pulled from the lake alive, but the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. As of now, authorities have not released the person’s identity or their current medical condition.
The individual was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation and possible treatment, but no additional updates have been provided. It is also unclear whether alcohol or other factors played a role in the incident.
Witnesses at the lake praised the speed and coordination of the emergency crews. “It was really scary at first,” said one onlooker who had been paddleboarding nearby. “Everyone was just hoping for the best. We’re all so relieved they found the person alive.”
White Bear Lake is a well-loved destination for families and boaters, particularly during weekends in the summer. While accidents are relatively rare, authorities are reminding the public to always use caution when swimming or jumping from boats.
Life jackets are strongly recommended, even for strong swimmers, as unexpected hazards such as underwater currents or sudden cramps can lead to dangerous situations.
Local officials said that an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact details of what happened on the pontoon and why the person was unable to resurface. The sheriff’s office expects to release more information as it becomes available.
This story is still developing. Please check back here for updates as additional details about the incident and the condition of the rescued individual are released.
