Two deputies honored for rescuing boys from frozen pond
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Shelby County Commissioners recognized two Shelby County deputies for their act of heroism after rescuing two young boys from a frozen pond.
On Jan 30, Deputy Edward Owens and Deputy Israel Muhammad pulled two boys, aged seven and 12, from an icy pond at the Southwind Lakes Apartments in Southeast Shelby County and administered CPR until additional help arrived.
Deputy Edward Owens and Deputy Israel Muhammad (Shelby CO Commission)
Deputy Edward Owens and Deputy Israel Muhammad (Shelby CO Commission)
The children were walking on what they thought was a solid, iced-over pond. Deputies say the ice cracked and the children fell into the icy water.
How Shelby County deputies saved brothers from icy pond
“Without hesitation and a great personal risk, Deputy Owens and Deputy Muhammad jumped into the frozen pond to reach the children, demonstrating extraordinary bravery, quick judgment, and unwavering commitment, saving lives,” said Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Shante K. Avant during a county commission meeting Monday night.
She thanked the deputies for their dedication to the county, but the men said it was a team effort.
“There were more men and women who were behind myself my partner, and you can imagine. The fire department, more deputies. Without their help, we wouldn’t have been as successful as we were, said Deputy Owens.”
“First and foremost want to thank God. He definitely gave us the strength to do all that we needed to do that day,” said Deputy Muhammad. “I want to just thank everyone here and everyone who was involved with us. We’re all just one big wheel.”
Southwind Lakes Apartments. WREG photo.
Commissioner Avant also said a prayer for the 7-year-old who is still in the hospital.
The daring rescue happened during frigid temperatures and limited visibility, but that didn’t stop the deputies from risking their lives to save those children.
Deputy Muhammad, who suffered from hypothermia and asthma at the scene, says they never hesitate to make sacrifices, regardless of the circumstances.
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