Emergency Crews, Hiker, and Drone Operator Unite in Heartwarming Taunton Rescue

TAUNTON (WBSM) — An adult kayaker had to be rescued from Lake Rico at Massasoit State Park on Tuesday.

Emergency Call to Lake Rico in Taunton

According to Taunton Fire Chief Steven P. Lavigne, the department responded at about 5:37 p.m. on July 14 to Lake Rico, at 1361 Middleboro Avenue, for a report of an overturned kayak with a person in the water.

The report came from the Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR).

Crews responded to the scene. A hiker had made contact with the kayaker and then reported their location to DCR and the fire department. Firefighters confirmed that a man was in the water holding on to his kayak.

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Commandeering Boats and Deploying Drones

Firefighters from Engine 9 commandeered a nearby boat and went out to the lake to reach the kayaker. Meanwhile, Ladder 2 personnel deployed the department’s inflatable rescue boat from the South Precinct Street access point.

A citizen also volunteered the use of his drone, which allowed incident command to maintain visual contact with the kayaker and help better coordinate the rescue effort.

The hiker remained with the kayaker until firefighters arrived at the location and safely brought the kayaker back to shore just after 6:20 p.m. EMTs evaluated him at the scene, but he did not require transport to the hospital.

Chief Lavigne’s Praise

"This incident's positive outcome was made possible due to a true team effort," Chief Lavigne said. "Our firefighters responded quickly and we are grateful to the members of the public who stepped up to help, including the citizen who provided drone support, the individual who made a boat available to firefighters, and the hiker who stayed with the kayaker until help arrived. Their actions certainly helped ensure a safe outcome."