Missing Teen, 17, Swimmer Dies After Being Found In Danbury Pond: Report

DANBURY, CT — A heartbreaking update as a 17-year-old died in a 4th of July swimming accident, according to the Danbury Police Department.

An ID has not yet been released by authorities.

The Fire Department said at 2:56 p.m. on Friday, 911 calls were received reporting a missing swimmer at Mountain Pond on Long Ridge Road. This pond is on an over 80 acre parcel owned by the Town of Bethel, which includes this reservoir.

A combined team of Danbury Fire, EMS, and Police Officers responded to the area and had to search for a way to the pond through the heavily wooded area.

The rescuers were directed to the exact spot the swimmer was last seen by some witnesses. Once the area of the pond was located, rescuers had to drag two, 350 pound rescue boats up a steep, rocky incline in order to launch the boats into the pond to begin search efforts, fire officials said.

After an initial attempt by firefighter rescue swimmers, the call went out for the Danbury Police Department Dive Team, and the Newtown Underwater Search And Rescue (NUSAR) team, since it was apparent that underwater operations would be needed, officials said.

A call for additional assistance went out for members of the Danbury Volunteer Fire Companies, as well as an Engine, Utility Terrain Vehicle, and manpower from the Bethel Fire Department.

At approximately 5:30 p.m., the victim was found by DPD divers and brought to shore for medical treatment and transport to the hospital. The Danbury Police Department Detective Bureau is leading the investigation.

"Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones," police spokesperson Erin Henry said in a statement.

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