Oskaloosa Fire Department Rescues Man From Des Moines River

Oskaloosa Fire helps pull Ernie Ellis from the Des Moines River June 7, 2011 (photo submitted)

Oskaloosa, Iowa- A construction crew working along the Des Moines River bank near 1850 River Road near Smokeville around 10:43 yesterday morning found themselves in trouble when the bank gave way. The workers had a dump truck backed up to the bank when the river bank collapsed into the Des Moines River.

Ernie Ellis was standing nearby when the tree and the river bank collapsed into the river. From all descriptions, Ellis rode the tree into the water and used it for support. Also falling into the water was Pat Scanlon, but he was able to climb out of the water.

Eddyville Fire Department took the call, and they set out for the area going up river in their boat. They called for assistance from the Oskaloosa Fire Department, and Oskaloosa launched their boat from Eveland Access heading towards Eddyville.

Ellis was tossed into the Des Moines River yesterday when the bank he was standing on gave way (photo submitted)

The Oskaloosa Fire Department sent a second unit by car to the scene where they were able to throw Ellis a rope and life jacket, helping to secure him until the boats arrived.

Mahaska County Emergency Management had recently held water rescue training on May 7th of this year, and were able to put lessons learned to real life practical use.

Eddyville Fire Department, Oskaloosa Fire Department, Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office and the Mahaska Health Partnership Paramedics all responded.