PORTAGE TWP— First responders and law enforcement officers were called to rescue a hunter here this past Saturday after the man became stuck in waist deep water in a partially frozen marsh. The hunter had been attempting the cross the marshy area just before dark when he broke through the thin ice and became mired in muck and couldn’t get out.
Rescuers were able to locate the hunter and rescued him utilizing an Argo operated by the Crane Lake Fire Department.
By the time of the rescue, the hunter was experiencing symptoms of hypothermia and was transported by ambulance to an area hospital for treatment.
Responders to the call included the Buyck First Responders and Fire Department, the Orr Ambulance, the Virginia Ambulance, the Crane Lake Fire Department, the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office and Rescue Squad.
As area waterways begin to freeze, the sheriff’s office is reminding the public to use good judgment and follow the DNR’s general ice thickness guidelines when venturing out this winter.