Media Release - Water Rescue at Springside Park

March 25, 2025

(GREATER NAPANEE, ON) – The Greater Napanee Fire Department is working with agency
partners after performing a water rescue at Springside Park on March 22, 2025.

Following the water rescue of a motorist, Fire Chief Shawn Armstrong will be reviewing the incident
with responding crews and agency partners in the future to understand how the Fire Department can
adapt and learn from the incident. The Fire Department’s current focus is ensuring that the
Firefighter’s who attended the scene are recovering from the impacts of the incident.

The Greater Napanee Fire Department will be working with the agency partners responsible for
Ontario waterways during the vehicle removal process to ensure that any potential impacts on the
waterway as well as on the Town’s parklands, environment, and species located in and around the
river are considered. Species in the area include geese, ducks, a variety of fish, and turtles to name a
few.

Terry Richardson, Mayor of the Town of Greater Napanee, expresses his gratitude toward the
Greater Napanee Fire Department. Mayor Richardson states, “On Saturday, March 22, members of
our Fire Department along with other members of our Emergency Services network attended the falls
at Springside Park with respect to a vehicle and occupant that had entered the river and became
lodged at the top of the falls. As a result of the heroic actions of our Fire Department personnel, the
lone occupant was rescued from the vehicle. Members of our Fire Department put their own lives at
risk in order to preserve the life of others. They should be commended and thanked for the service
they provide to our community. The Town of Greater Napanee will continue to work with our partners
to ensure that the vehicle is removed from the falls as quickly and safely as possible."

Shawn Armstrong, Fire Chief for the Greater Napanee Fire Department, explains the danger of
performing a water rescue. Chief Armstrong states, “I am proud of the teamwork of all Fire
Department members at this incident. The water rescue incident highlights the dangers and
complexities of technical rescues in swift moving water courses. The Greater Napanee Fire
Department members are committed to ensuring responder safety. An incident debrief will occur with
all involved to review and highlight any recommendations regarding future responses of this nature.”

Media Contact:
Kylie Huffman
Community Engagement & Communications Coordinator
Town of Greater Napanee
T: 613-776-1116
E: khuffman@greaternapanee.com

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