ATKINSON — Authorities are actively searching for a woman believed to have fallen through the ice at Big Island Pond after distress calls were heard just before 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 11.
New Hampshire State Police – Marine Patrol, alongside several local first responders, rushed to Chase Island Road following reports of someone yelling for help.
Units from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Atkinson Police and Fire Departments, Hampstead Police and Fire Departments, Derry Police and Fire Departments, PrideStar EMS, Plaistow Fire/Rescue and EMS, and the Salem Fire Department are all involved in the search and rescue operation.
Initial findings by the Marine Patrol suggest the victim may have drowned after falling through the ice.
Despite their efforts, she has yet to be found, and recovery operations are set to resume in daylight hours.
Officials are urging anyone with information that could aid the investigation to contact Marine Patrol Sgt.
Nicholas Haroutunian at (603) 227-2112 or via email at [email protected].
In light of this incident, the New Hampshire State Police – Marine Patrol cautions the community and visitors to exercise extreme care when going onto frozen lakes and ponds.
Ice safety guidelines are available on the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s website.
