WEBSTER — A potentially tragic incident was averted on Jan. 13 when Webster police swiftly located a toddler who had wandered away from his babysitter and was found partially submerged in the French River.
The South Worcester County Communication Center received a distressing call at approximately 12:44 p.m. from a babysitter reporting that the toddler, who is autistic and was only clad in a diaper, had apparently left the residence through an open window.
Officers Jon Brooks, Robert Rockwood, and Patrick Trainor responded immediately to the situation.
Understanding the child’s attraction to water, the officers hurried to the nearby French River.
Officer Trainor discovered the toddler on the riverbank, partially in the water.
He rescued the child from the frigid water and promptly informed his colleagues of the successful location.
Officer Brooks called for an ambulance to ensure the child received a thorough medical evaluation.
The toddler was taken to a local hospital as a precautionary measure following the harrowing ordeal.
The Webster Police Department praised the officers and the call takers from the South Worcester County Communication Center for their exceptional work in disseminating information, coordinating a rapid response, and finding the child quickly.
The department acknowledged that without the swift action of all involved, the outcome could have been far worse.
In a statement, the police department expressed gratitude for the dedication and daily efforts of both the Webster Police personnel and the South Worcester County Communication Center staff in serving and protecting the community.
