911 officials in Somerset County say multiple crews are on scene of a reported water rescue in Conemaugh Township.
Authorities say officials received a call, around 11:30 a.m., for an individual who was reportedly trapped in the Stonycreek River.
Officials in Somerset County have confirmed that one person has died after being pulled from the Stonycreek River in Conemaugh Township Thursday afternoon.
Authorities say first responders were dispatched around 11:30 a.m. after receiving a report that an individual had become “trapped” in the river.
According to the manager of the Somerset County Swift Water Rescue Team, multiple people were reportedly floating down the river in innertubes when the victim allegedly stepped into the water and became stuck.
Officials say the male was wearing a life jacket but reportedly became trapped in the rapids.
“The kid did everything right. The problem is he put his feet down on the ground. That’s what actually got stuck.”
Authorities say crews were able to rescue the other 14 individuals who were part of the group and transported them to safety.
“They thought that they were going for fun and adventure, but it can turn deadly. Err on the side of safety,”
Officials say line systems, rescue boats and other equipment were used to recover the victim from an area of about 10 inches of water.
“They did have jackets on. It’s just a freak thing that happened. You got to be prepared.”
The Somerset County coroner’s office is investigating the death and the identity and age of the victim have not yet been released.
