Utica, IL – Arctic Conditions Lead to Hypothermia, Rescue Near Starved Rock

Utica, IL – During a chilling operation on a frigid Sunday evening, a barge worker was rescued near Starved Rock Lock and Dam, suffering from severe hypothermia. 

Utica Firefighters report the worker, engaged on the deck of a barge along the Illinois River, did not fall into the water but was critically affected by the arctic-like conditions. The incident unfolded as the barge neared Ottawa, prompting a call for emergency assistance at the dam. 

A collaborative effort between Utica and Oglesby first responders and lock and dam personnel facilitated the swift transfer of the worker to OSF St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Ottawa, where he is currently stable.