SUWANEE — A teenager, swimming with friends at Settles Bridge Park in Suwanee Monday night, got caught in the current of the Chattahoochee River and was swept downstream almost a mile.
Gwinnett County rescuers were called at 7:39 p.m. and searched the river for about a half hour before finding the 18-year-old on the river bank. He was taken to the hospital to be evaluated for exposure to the cold water.
Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge said the teen, whose name will not be released, jumped into the river from an old bridge structure soon after water had been released into the river from Buford Dam, so the water was turbulent.
"We are fortunate that tonight's incident had a positive outcome and that the victim was located out of the water and safe," said Rutledge.
Rutledge said the Gwinnett Police helicopter was requested for reconnaissance of the river and additional fire units were sent to McGinnis Ferry and Abbotts Bridge to establish downstream safety positions. The Gwinnett Fire rescue boat was deployed and assisted in the search.
Rutledge said Gwinnett County firefighters continue to train and prepare for increased water rescue emergencies during the summer months, since the warm weather means an increase in recreational activity on area rivers and lakes.
He warned river-goers to pay attention to generation times at Buford Dam and to stay off the river until the swift current and water level recede. He also said people should never climb on old bridge structures and should avoid jumping into the river from elevated platforms.
