UPDATED: Law enforcement and rescue crews respond to drowning incident at Poe Springs Park

Staff report

Updated at 8:20 p.m. with additional information from Alachua County Sheriff’s Office

HIGH SPRINGS, Fla. – Shortly before 4:00 p.m. today, deputies responded to Poe Springs Park following the report of a possible drowning. The caller advised that two individuals were pulled from the water and were unconscious.

A bystander with medical training immediately started CPR until deputies and Alachua County Fire Rescue paramedics arrived. First responders continued life-saving efforts, and both individuals were transported to area hospitals, where they remain in critical condition.

Preliminary information indicates that one individual was walking along the edge of the spring when they fell into the water and started to struggle. A second individual attempted to assist but was also pulled under. When others nearby noticed they had not resurfaced, they entered the water and were able to bring both individuals back to shore.

As a precaution, ASO’s Marine Operations Underwater Recovery Team responded and conducted a search of the area to ensure no additional victims were involved.

This remains an active investigation, and no further details are available at this time.

This is a heartbreaking situation, and our thoughts are with the individuals involved, as well as their families and loved ones.

We are deeply grateful to the citizens who acted quickly in a dangerous and uncertain situation. Their willingness to help made a critical difference.

We also thank the High Springs Police Department and High Springs Fire Department for their assistance.

Original report

Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ASO) is reporting that deputies, High Springs Police Officers, and crews from High Springs Fire Department and Alachua County Fire Rescue are responding to a call about two individuals who were found unresponsive in the water at Poe Springs Park (29722 NW 182nd Avenue).

This scene is very active, with numerous law enforcement and fire rescue personnel on scene.

Please avoid the area at this time.