Rescuers pulled a man from rushing, frigid water less than 100 yards from the brink of Niagara Falls Thursday.
Authorities don't know how or when the unidentified man entered the rapids. Witnesses on shore called 911 with reports of a man clinging to a log shortly before noon. Several agencies responded to assist in the rescue effort, including Niagara Falls Fire, New York State Police, Border Patrol and the New York State Power Authority.
"Swift water rescue members from Niagara Falls Fire entered the water and attempted to rescue the male," according to New York State Park Police. "While securing the victim, he broke free from rescuers and began to float down river. It was at that time when Niagara Zone members attempted to intercept the male as he floated toward the falls."
Park Police Maj. Clyde Doty entered the river and was able to catch the male as he was floating toward the falls. Doty grabbed the man, keeping his head above water until they were both brought in. With tourists cheering on shore, the man was pulled out at 2 p.m. and taken to a hospital.
Doty told reporters that the man was babbling and his body was stiff from cold. His condition is unknown.
