Person Rescued From River in Waterford City Following Multi-Agency Emergency Response

Wednesday 27 May 2026

A person was successfully rescued from the water in Waterford City on Wednesday afternoon (27 May) following a coordinated emergency response involving multiple agencies.

Photo Credit: Waterford City River Rescue

The incident prompted the mobilisation of crews from Waterford City River Rescue CRBI, Waterford City Fire Service, An Garda Síochána, and ambulance crews from Waterford Ambulance Station after the alarm was raised through the Irish Coast Guard.

Waterford City River Rescue personnel aboard the rescue vessel Lenny O successfully recovered the casualty from the water before handing the person into the care of ambulance crews at the scene. The casualty was subsequently transported for medical treatment.

The incident was coordinated by the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), with all responding agencies praised for their swift and professional actions.

Particular thanks were extended to the member of the public who contacted emergency services and deployed a life ring before rescue crews arrived on scene.

“Thank you to the person who called 999 and threw a life ring — you saved a life today,” a spokesperson said.

Responders also used the incident to highlight the importance of contacting emergency services immediately in any water-related emergency.

Members of the public are reminded that if they see anyone in difficulty on rivers, lakes, or along the coast, they should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Irish Coast Guard. Early notification allows the appropriate rescue services to be dispatched without delay.

Authorities stressed that people should never assume someone else has already made the emergency call.