LEWISTON, Idaho — An Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) biologist saved a 10-year-old boy in the Selway River earlier this summer.
On July 13, Robert Hand, a biologist for IDFG from the Clearwater Region Fisheries was wrapping up a work-related float trip on the Selway River when he heard a family shouting downstream, according to Fish and Game.
Hand then saw a 10-year-old boy fighting the current and being swept downstream. Hand knew he wouldn't have enough time to get a rope or a floatation device for the boy, so he literally jumped into action and dove in the water. Hand swam into the current to save the young swimmer from drifting into the rapids further downstream. The boy was struggling to keep his head above water, but Hand was able to reach him in time and swim him to the shore.
Hand has been an employee with IDFG for the last 22 years and has seen a lot of Idaho's treacherous rivers in his time with the agency. Hand and many other Fish and Game staff undergo water training to keep themselves and others safe in the water.
“We are thankful this boy was able to return safely to his family,” Fish and Game Director Jim Fredericks said. “We also thank Robert for his fast action and bravery in assessing a dangerous situation and rescuing the boy. This reflects highly on his dedication and professionalism, and we could not be prouder.”
Governor Brad Little also congratulated Robert Hand for saving the young boy in a Facebook post saying "Earlier this month, one of our incredible Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) employees rescued a 10-year-old boy drowning in the Selway River. Because of this extraordinary act of heroism, that boy is safe, and his family is whole. Idahoans – please join me in thanking Robert for his bravery."
