Two rescued after ice breakthrough on Upper Red Lake

The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office reports that two people were rescued after breaking through the ice on a Polaris Ranger on Upper Red Lake Thursday evening.

“Beltrami County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call from a fisherman that indicated two of the four members of their fishing party had broken through the ice on the southeastern part of Upper Red Lake,” explained Sheriff Jason Riggs. “Initial information indicated they were wearing buoyant ice suits that kept them afloat. Bystanders used a rope to get the men out of the water and back to shore.”

The Sheriff’s office stated that ice conditions have improved with colder weather, but certain areas still remain inconsistent.

The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Kelliher Fire and Rescue, Kelliher First Responders, Blackduck Ambulance, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Conservations Officers and bystanders. 

This is the latest in a series of ice breakthroughs on Upper Red Lake this winter.