Mesa Firefighters Rescue 75-Year-Old Man During Salt River Training

During a swift water rescue training session at the Phon D. Sutton Recreation Area on the Salt River, Mesa Fire and Medical Department firefighters encountered a 75-year-old man unresponsive in the water. The crew quickly transitioned from training to a real-life rescue, performing CPR that successfully resuscitated the man before transporting him to the hospital. Officials highlighted the incident as a powerful reminder of the importance of training and timely response in emergencies. The department hopes to reunite the man with his rescuers and continues to emphasize safety precautions such as swimming with a partner and wearing life jackets, especially amid rising temperatures. While the cause of the man's condition remains unclear, officials noted factors like swimming alone or impaired conditions often contribute to adult drownings. This event underscores the unpredictable nature of water emergencies and the critical role of preparedness.