TOMS RIVER: On Friday, February 24, 2023, at approximately 3:16 PM, police, fire, and EMS units were dispatched to the Tunney Bridge for a boater in distress. Two contractors, Randolph Fuson and Charles Baldwin of IEW, were performing maintenance on bridge when they noticed an overturned kayak and looked to see if anyone was near. They heard someone yelling for help and provided a life vest and life ring to the individual, holding the rope to keep him in sight until additional help arrived.

Officers arrived, and subsequently members of the Seaside Heights Fire and Police Departments responded by boat to pull the victim from the water. He was taken to Community Medical Center for treatment. Also assisting at the scene was East Dover Fire, Ocean Beach Fire, Silverton Fire, and the New Jersey State Police Marine Division.

Toms River Police Department stated “We’d like to commend Mr. Fuson and Mr. Baldwin for their vigilance and quick thinking!”

The incident remains under investigation by Toms River Officer Michael Hader.