Harrowing Water Rescue Tuesday By Newport's Cliff Walk

NEWPORT, RI —Firefighters rushed to the Cliff Walk near Shepard Avenue and The Breakers on Tuesday afternoon to save a man who reportedly jumped and was lying face down in the water. According to fire Capt. Paul Faerber, a witness called 911 at 12:33 p.m. and reported the person was not moving. Rescue 2 and Engine 5 made it to the scene in three minutes and started a "full water rescue," he said. The Coast Guard and Marine Task Force were notified. Three minutes later the deputy chief arrived and took command. The patient was still alive, so firefighters sounded a second alarm for more assistance and started to resuscitate the man, 52. At 12:50, crews were able to move the patient out of the water and start lifting him in a stretcher up the rocks. Eight minutes later, they were on the way to Newport Hospital.

Update

Medics revived and stabilized the patient on the way to the hospital. He has since been transferred to Rhode Island Hospital.

"The boys did a good job," Capt. Faerber said. "They made a very good response to get in the water so quickly."

No additional information about his condition is available.

Police Lt. Frank Rosa said the man is from Warwick. His name is not being released at this time.

Staff Photo: Margo Sullivan