Albany, New York – A tragic incident unfolded at Washington Park Lake over the weekend, resulting in the death of a 12-year-old boy and leaving an 11-year-old girl in critical condition. The boy lost his life after falling through the ice into the lake, while the girl reportedly attempted to save him, risking her own safety.
The Albany Police Department received a distress call from a witness reporting the children falling into the icy waters near the lake house on Saturday afternoon. Responders arrived promptly at the scene to assist, locating the girl first before embarking on a search for the boy.
Despite their swift action, the boy was discovered lifeless in the lake. The girl, on the other hand, was rescued and immediately treated at the scene before being rushed to Albany Medical Center Hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
Authorities believe the incident occurred when the boy attempted to traverse the frozen lake, leading to the ice giving way beneath him. The scale of the lake at Washington Park – measuring 1,600 feet long and 140 feet wide with varying depths – posed challenges for the rescue teams.
The tragic incident prompted an outpouring of support from the community, with Mayor Kathy Sheehan expressing her condolences to the families of the victims. The children’s identities have not been disclosed to the public due to their age, although the North Albany Middle School confirmed them as students in a heartfelt statement.
The school district is providing crisis services to help students and staff cope with the aftermath of the accident, highlighting the profound impact on the local community. Additionally, warning signs have been posted around the lake to caution against unsafe behaviors, especially during fluctuating winter temperatures.
Authorities emphasize the importance of safety measures and immediate action in case of emergencies involving icy waters. Residents are encouraged not to take risks and to prioritize their own well-being while seeking assistance from trained professionals in such situations.