Responders Search Island Pond For Report Of Woman Who Fell Through Ice

ATKINSON, NH — Several fire departments, EMS, and Police responded to Big Island Pond in Atkinson in the area of Chase Island Road near Hemlock Heights Road on Saturday.

Just before 5:30 p.m., first responders were called to Chase Island Road in Atkinson for reports of someone yelling for help. Marine Patrol officers, along with members of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Atkinson Police Department, Atkinson Fire Department, Hampstead Police Department, Hampstead Fire Department, Derry Police Department, Derry Fire Department, PrideStar EMS, Plaistow Fire/Rescue and EMS, and Salem Fire Department responded.

Based on the preliminary investigation, Marine Patrol officers believe the victim fell through the ice and likely drowned. At this time, the victim has not yet been located, and recovery efforts remain ongoing. The search has been suspended until daylight hours.

The New Hampshire State Police-Marine Patrol reminds all residents and visitors to use caution before venturing out on open ice this winter. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website offers general ice safety tips.

One person was transported from the scene to Parkland Medical Center, our sources indicate it was a firefighter who fell during the rescue attempt and has what appear to be non-life-threatening injuries.

Big Island Pond is located in Rockingham County and is surrounded by the towns of Derry, Hampstead, and Atkinson. The pond is 532 Acres, with Governor’s Island in the middle with 15 miles of shoreline.

Anyone with additional information to assist the ongoing investigation is asked to contact Marine Patrol Sgt. Nicholas Haroutunian at 603-227-2112 or Nicholas.M.Haroutunian@DOS.NH.GOV.

©Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news