A New Hampshire man's boating excursion with his two children took a harrowing turn when their canoe capsized, leading to a dramatic rescue and the father's subsequent arrest. Michael Stewart, of Franklin, is now facing charges after law enforcement responded to an emergency situation near the Franklin Library on Friday, as reported by NBC Boston.
Witnesses recalled seeing a visibly wet Stewart, urging bystanders to dial 911, after the vessel overturned in the frigid waters of the Winnipesaukee River. Upon arrival, police encountered Stewart and learned that his 3-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter had been thrown overboard. Sgt. Walker of the Franklin Police Department did not hesitate to plunge into the icy waters, rescuing the young children who were both donning life vests at the time, authorities noted, according to WMUR.
The 3-year-old was subsequently airlifted for medical attention, while his sister received treatment at a local facility. The specifics of their conditions were not immediately available, though police confirmed that the child at Concord Hospital in Franklin was alert and engaging with medical staff. Sgt. Walker himself was treated and released for symptoms of hypothermia after the chilling ordeal.
In the wake of the incident, Franklin Police Department's Chief Davis Goldstein underscored the peril of the situation, citing the inherent dangers associated with canoeing, particularly with young children and during a time of year when waters are notably treacherous. "Given the time of year, the temperature of the water, the risk that you’re taking on a vessel that is not the most stable in the world, unless you’re really good at it," Goldstein said. "With two very small children, I would say that was not good thinking,” he told WMUR.
Authorities have confirmed that Stewart, who was reported to have been under the influence during the incident, is now facing a charge for DWI.
