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Quick action by Webster police saves toddler found in river

  • Posted by The Burbs (Sponsor: North End Motor Sales) January 20, 2024 - Filed in News - #Webster Police Department  #Toddler Rescue  #South Worcester County Communication Center  - 6,425 views

    WEBSTER — In a heart-stopping incident that could have ended tragically, the quick response of Webster Police Officers and the South Worcester County Communication Center recently led to the safe recovery of an autistic toddler. The child had wandered from home and was found partially submerged in the nearby French River.

    The incident unfolded on Saturday, January 13th, according to a release from the Webster Police Department on Friday afternoon, January 19th.

    The S.W.C.C.C. received a distressing call at approximately 12:44 p.m. A babysitter reported that the toddler she was caring for had vanished through an open window, clad only in a diaper. Recognizing the urgency, officers Jon Brooks, Robert Rockwood, and Patrick Trainor immediately converged on the scene.

    Given the known attraction to water often exhibited by individuals with autism, the officers prioritized searching the vicinity of the French River. It was there that Officer Trainor made the critical discovery: the young child was located on the bank, partially in the water. Officer Trainor rescued the toddler from the precarious situation and signaled his fellow officers.

    Understanding the potential health risks of such exposure, Officer Brooks promptly called for medical support. The child was swiftly evaluated by paramedics and then transported to a local hospital as a precautionary measure.

    The incident drew widespread praise for the officers and the SWCCC staff. Their exemplary coordination and rapid action in the face of potential tragedy underscored the commitment of the Webster Police Department and SWCCC to community safety.

    "I commend the officers and call takers from SWCCC on doing an outstanding job in getting the information out, coordinating a response, and locating the child," stated a representative of the Webster Police Department. "This story could have had a much worse outcome. I am thankful for the hard work the men and women of the Webster Police Department and South Worcester County Communication Center do every day."

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