MARION, Ind. (WTHR) – A 13-year-old boy is in critical condition at a Ft. Wayne hospital after nearly drowning Saturday near the Charles Mill Dam in Marion.
The 13-year-old was fishing in the Mississinewa River near Charles Mill Dam along with two male friends, a 9-year-old and a 14-year-old. At about 6:19 p.m., the boys saw a basketball floating near the dam. When they tried to retrieve it, they got caught in the current, which pulled them underwater, according to a Marion police officer.
The 14-year-old was able to grab the 9-year-old and escape the water. Three Marion police officers and a passerby were able to rescue the 13-year-old. The officers performed CPR while awaiting emergency crews.
The 13-year-old was flown to Fort Wayne in critical condition, police said. The other two boys are reportedly recovering with a few bruises.
Authorities have not released the boys’ identities.