| Mid afternoon on June 9th, 2009 at 1:42 PM Fame Fire Company of West Chester was dispatched to Brandywine Picnic Park for a water rescue. As the situation unfolded Chester County 911 was getting reports from the caller that two kayakers were trapped in a dam in the river. The caller reported two men appearing to be in their 20's were observed traveling down the Brandywine River when they capsized their crafts after going over the dam. The frequently traveled area of the river was greatly impacted by a storm that recently passed through the area causing rapid moving and elevated water levels. The caller reported that the males were stuck in the hydraulics of the dam and despite quick attempts by park staff, they were unable to reach them and the men continued to be sucked under the water. Longwood and Kennett Fire Companies were dispatched shortly after for their boats and crews to assist Fame with the rescue.
Kennett Fire Company responded with Squad 24 pulling a trailer carrying Boat 1 and 2, and Ambulance 24-2 responded with additional manpower for the boats. Upon arrival of 24 crews Boat 1 was immediately deployed to assist with rescue efforts and Boat 2 was not far behind and was deployed as a support unit. Engine 24 responded with additional trained personnel to assist and provide relief crews.
Responders were able to retrieve one of the kayakers from the water and he was transported by Emergency Medical Services to Chester County Hospital. Despite quick and efficient efforts by rescuers, providers, and the hospital, resuscitation efforts were stopped as there was nothing more that could be done.
Rescuers continued the diligent search for the other kayakers in the dam and along the river and shorelines throughout the afternoon. The severe weather in the area including lightning and tornado warnings caused a challenge for providers. Recovery efforts continued until dark when they were suspended until the following day.
June 10th, 2009 responders reported to Fame Fire Company at 9:00 am, after a short briefing recovery efforts continued throughout the day. Two kayaks that were presumed to be the crafts the two victims were operating were recovered however one victim is still unaccounted for. At this time no additional recovery operations are scheduled to take place.
Kennett Fire Company extends its deepest sympathy to the family of the two victims of this tragic accident.
Kennett would like to thank Po-Mar-Lin Fire Co for providing a stand-by crew in Station to cover calls during the rescue and recovery operations. Po-Mar-Lin responded to an Automatic Fire Alarm that was a false call and an Ambulance assist call both in Kennett Township.
Additional Information at the links below:
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/dpp/news/local_news/060909_Possible_Drowning_In_West_Chester_Area
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/dpp/news/local_news/061009_Missing_Kayaker_In_West_Chester |
