Man, dog rescued from frigid waters of Genesee River in Wellsville

A man and a dog were rescued Friday afternoon after they were submerged in the frigid waters of the Genesee River in Wellsville, between Island Park and the Wellsville campus of Alfred State College. It hasn't been confirmed how long they were in the nearly frozen water. The outdoor temperature at the time of the incident was 16 degrees. Wellsville police and (Alfred State) University Police were among the first to reach the man and initially assisted in his rescue. Wellsville EMS and Rescue also responded with equipment and personnel to assist in the water rescue.  Crews had to access the scene by foot along a trail. Responders said when they arrived they "needed blankets right away." The victim was placed in the ambulance and was rushed to a Mercy Flight helicopter which was waiting at the Loder Street landing zone. He was then flown to Strong Memorial in Rochester. Radio reports indicated he sustained hypothermia. Responders and police also rushed the dog to the Wellsville Veterinary Hospital. This is a developing story.

The names of the Alfred State students who showed quick thinking and alerted 911 when they heard the man’s cries for help and saw that he and his dog were in distress are David Snyder, Kameron Mills, Jack Derby, Owen Brewster, and Alex Tanerski.