In a heart-stopping afternoon drama that unfolded along London’s riverbanks, emergency crews conducted a high-stakes rescue operation on Saturday that had downtown onlookers holding their breath.

The London Fire Department responded to a 911 call at approximately 1:58 p.m. on March 22, regarding a person in distress in the Thames River near the intersection of Richmond Street and Ridout Street.

Initially deploying a full water rescue team, first responders quickly adapted their strategy when updated information revealed the individual was located near the shoreline but in serious medical distress. The situation prompted an immediate shift to a technical high-angle rescue operation.

The rescue effort showcased remarkable coordination between multiple emergency services, with London Fire Department personnel working seamlessly alongside Middlesex-London Paramedic Service and London Police Service to execute the complex extraction.

Fire crews were observed expertly packaging the patient for the challenging high-angle extrication, demonstrating the specialized training and equipment necessary for such precarious rescues along the city’s steep riverbanks.

The incident temporarily disrupted downtown traffic, with authorities closing Ridout Street south of Horton Street while emergency operations were underway. The closure was brief but necessary to facilitate the rescue operation and ensure the safety of both the individual and first responders.

Following the successful extraction, the patient was transported to hospital. At the time of the London Fire Department’s report, the individual’s condition remained unknown.

The quick response by London’s emergency services highlights the challenges posed by the city’s river system and the readiness of first responders to handle complex rescue scenarios, particularly as spring weather brings more people to waterfront areas.