Two snowmobilers in Michigan experienced a perilous plunge through the ice of Croton Dam Pond in Newaygo County on Thursday evening. According to a ClickOnDetroit report, the Newaygo County Sheriff's Office received a call around 10 p.m. and soon after discovered one individual on shore, who managed to escape the frigid waters unaided, while the other remained trapped.

Arriving at the scene, Croton Fire Department firefighters successfully rescued the second individual from the pond. Both were transported to the hospital where they were treated for hypothermia, as revealed by woodtv.com. It was also disclosed by authorities that alcohol is believed to have played a role in the accident, however, it remains under investigation.

Frederick Espy, a local resident from Croton Township, recounted his harrowing experience to WZZM 13, expressing gratitude for being alive after the ordeal. Espy described how disorientation led to the decision to turn around on the lake, leading to his friend, an amputee from a previous motorcycle accident, suddenly sinking into the cold abyss.

"He was struggling to stay up. He's an amputee," Espy said, explaining the desperate moment when both snowmobilers ended up in the water. Making a critical decision, Espy managed to climb out and seek help, leaving his friend behind briefly to hold on "until we both die," unintentionally suggesting a grim outcome had they not been rescued. Thankfully, a passerby called 911, ensuring the arrival of emergency services who quickly took action.

Espy's advice to other snowmobile enthusiasts was clear; he told WZZM 13, "If you're going to snowmobile, stay on land." Espy reflected on the mishap, emphasizing the need to "make a better decision" and expressing his intent to avoid snowmobiling in the future — or at least to stay on terra firma if he ever rides again.