Police save fleeing subject from drowning in Newburgh

A suspect who was attempting to flee a police investigation nearly drowned in a city pond while he was attempting to evade police. The police swan into the pond and rescued the man on September 8, 2022.

According to the City of Newburgh Police, a detail of city cops and state troopers assigned to a “Precision Policing” initiative to address gun violence, stopped a vehicle on Third Street near Downing Park at 9:38 p.m. that night as part of an ongoing investigation.

During the traffic stop, one of the vehicle occupants fled on foot towards Downing Park and dove into the pond to avoid police. The male then swam out about 60 feet from shore and began struggling to stay above water.

The struggling swimmer began shouting to police that he was drowning and then disappeared under the surface for several seconds. The man eventually resurfaced and was witnessed spitting out water and gasping for air.

Two cops jumped in and swam out approximately 40 feet and then threw a rescue rope and flotation device to the man. Once secured, the police brought the man to shore for evaluation.

The man’s name was not released and the police did not indicate if he was charged with any crimes.

As part of the investigation, city and state police, assisted by several city agencies including the fire, engineering, and water departments, recently drained the pond at Downing Park and recovered a loaded firearm.

The investigation into this case is still ongoing and charges are pending. Anyone with any information is asked to call the City of Newburgh Police Department at 845-569-7509. Callers can remain anonymous.