April 21, 2020

MDIFW NEWS: Game Wardens and Sabattus Fire Department Rescue Three Kayakers Who Capsized On Sabattus Pond

Life jackets likely saved the lives of all three as they were in the frigid water for over 45 minutes before being rescued. SABATTUS, Maine -- Game wardens and members of Sabattus Fire Department rescued three men who capsized their kayaks in high winds shortly after noon today on Sabattus Pond. Corey Bouchard, age 29, and Cody McClain, age 26 of Sabattus along with Bouchard's father (name, age and address unknown at this time) went kayaking on Sabattus pond around noontime today. Bouchard and his father were in one inflatable kayak, and McClain in another inflatable kayak when the winds picked up and swamped both kayaks, throwing all three men into the icy water. The Sabattus Fire Department rescued Bouchard and his father who were in the water near the center of the pond for approximately 45 minutes. Game Wardens Cody Lounder and Harry Wiegman launched a watercraft from Martins Point on the east shore of the pond and located McClain floating near the center of the pond clinging to his paddle. All three men were wearing life jackets.

"Life jackets likely saved the lives of all three men today," said Corporal John MacDonald of the Maine Warden Service, If you are out on the water this time of year, its imperative you wear your life jacket. Life jackets do save lives.

All three men were brought to shore and were transported by United Ambulance to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. The men were alert and conscious but showing signs of hypothermia according to game wardens. Maine State Police and Sabattus Police Department also responded.

No further information is available at this time.