Delta police, Delta fire and a group of students are all being credited for helping to rescue a 12-year-old girl stuck in the mud off English Bluff in low tide early Saturday night.
According to police, officers were contacted around 5:30 p.m. by Delta fire to assist with a young girl stuck in the mud off shore at Fred Gingell beach. The beach area is accessed by a flight of stairs and a steep path.
DPD public affairs coordinator Cris Leykauf said three constables arrived at the stairs at 5:39 p.m. and went down to assist.
She said two firefighters were with a 12-year old girl about 150 metres off shore.
“She was stuck up to her stomach in mud and the fire department members were holding onto her to prevent her from slipping in deeper,” said Leykauf. “She wasn't able to move her legs and was extremely cold from prolonged exposure. I believe low tide was just before 5 p.m., so the water was coming back in.”
Leykauf said the girl and her younger brother had been exploring at the beach earlier when they both became stuck in mud, but fortunately a group of teen girls nearby noticed their predicament. The teens were able to dig the boy out, but not the girl so they called 9-1-1.
“One of constables managed to dig the girl out using his hands, assisted by fire department members,” added Leykauf. “She was very cold, but otherwise OK. One of the firefighters carried her up the stairs while one of our constables carried her younger brother. They re-united both children with their guardian, who was waiting at the top of the access stairs.”
Fortunately the girl wasn't injured.
“We want to make sure to acknowledge the teens who had the presence of mind to help rescue her brother and call for help and of course give a shout-out to the Delta fire department as well,” she added.
DPD Chief Neil Dubord also offered praise to all involved.
“They were tired, covered in mud – and absolutely thrilled to have been able to help this young girl,” said Dubord of his officers. “I think I can speak on behalf of these three fine constables and all our officers. We go into this line of work to be there when some really needs help. And when you get to do that and make a difference, it’s just the best feeling.”
