Upstate New York Father Dies After Rescuing 6-Year-Old Son Who Fell Through Ice on Frozen Pond
UPSTATE NEW YORK — A devastating winter tragedy unfolded in Upstate New York after a father died while saving his young son from freezing water, following a sudden ice collapse during an outdoor outing. Authorities confirmed the incident occurred on a frozen pond where ice conditions proved dangerously unstable.
Ice Fishing Trip Ends in Emergency
The incident happened while 33-year-old Bryan P. LaPlante was ice fishing with his 6-year-old son and 48-year-old family friend Michael J. Booth. Officials said a snowmobile broke through the ice, plunging LaPlante and Booth into the icy water below.
Freezing temperatures, unstable ice thickness, and limited daylight created an extremely dangerous situation, leaving little time for safe recovery once the ice gave way.
Father’s Final Act Saves His Son
Despite being trapped in frigid water, LaPlante managed to lift his son out of the broken ice and onto the frozen surface. Authorities said LaPlante then made the critical decision to instruct his son to walk nearly two miles to seek help, knowing the child was the only one capable of reaching assistance.
The young boy followed his father’s instructions and successfully made his way through the cold conditions to reach his grandfather, a factor officials say directly contributed to his survival.
Rescue Efforts Claim Two Lives
After the child left to get help, the boy’s grandfather attempted to assist in the rescue. During that effort, he also fell through the ice, but was able to pull himself out and later received treatment for hypothermia before being released.
Emergency responders later located LaPlante and Booth unresponsive in the water. Despite rescue attempts, both men were pronounced dead, marking a tragic conclusion to the incident.
Community Honors a Heroic Sacrifice
Officials described Bryan LaPlante’s actions as heroic, emphasizing that his quick thinking and selfless decision saved his son’s life. Community members and first responders expressed heartbreak over the loss, while acknowledging the courage displayed in the father’s final moments.
The 6-year-old boy survived and was treated for hypothermia before being released in stable condition. Authorities confirmed no foul play is suspected.
Officials Issue Urgent Ice Safety Warning
Following the tragedy, officials warned residents about the extreme dangers of frozen ponds and lakes, noting that ice thickness can vary dramatically even within short distances. Activities such as ice fishing and snowmobiling remain particularly risky during fluctuating winter temperatures.
Residents are urged to avoid assuming ice is safe, use protective gear, and closely monitor local safety advisories. This tragedy stands as a painful reminder of winter’s dangers — and the extraordinary sacrifice of a father whose final act ensured his child would live.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking rescue and the dangers of winter ice conditions? Share your views and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
