3 Men Rescued After Falling Through Ice in Queens

Multiple first responders also fell in the frigid waters as they rescued the men

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Three 22-year-old men were walking across the frozen Jamaica Bay in Far Rockaway, Queens, when they fell through the ice and into the cold water. First responders from the FDNY and NYPD arrived on the scene and also fell into the water while attempting to rescue the men. After nearly 40 minutes in the freezing water, the three men were successfully pulled to safety and transported to local hospitals, where they remain conscious and alert.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of venturing onto frozen bodies of water, even when they appear to be solid. The rescue efforts also put first responders at risk, underscoring the challenges they face in these types of emergencies. The event raises awareness about the importance of heeding warnings and exercising caution around icy conditions.

The details

The three men were walking across the frozen Jamaica Bay in Far Rockaway, Queens, when they fell through the ice, which was approximately 36 degrees Fahrenheit. As the men were 'panicking' and 'screaming for help', witnesses tried to calm them down. FDNY first responders arrived first, and one of them fell into the water while trying to reach the victims. The NYPD later arrived, and an NYPD scuba team member also fell into the water. The NYPD's aviation unit ultimately rescued the men using a helicopter.

  • On Friday, February 6, 2026, around 4:15 p.m., the FDNY was alerted of three people in the Jamaica Bay waters.
  • The three men had been walking on the icy bay all week, despite warnings from neighbors to stop.

The players

Thomas Castro

A witness who saw the incident unfold.

Aiden Gabourel

Another witness who was yelling at the men to 'calm down' as they screamed for help.

FDNY

The Fire Department of New York, who were the first responders on the scene.

NYPD

The New York Police Department, who arrived after the FDNY and also had a member fall into the water during the rescue efforts.

The three 22-year-old men

The victims who fell through the ice and into the frigid waters of Jamaica Bay.

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What they’re saying

“The first guy that came out of the helicopter actually needed to rescue himself. Because as soon as he went in the water his line that was supposed to attach himself with the guy he was rescuing, the line kinda detached itself.”

— Thomas Castro, Witness (PIX11)

“And I could hear 'em talking, 'Listen, just hold on, don't make any movements or whatever.' Yeah, I just thought about hypothermia.”

— Aiden Gabourel, Witness (ABC 7)

“Every day I drive by, I live around the corner, I see them doing it and I pull over and say look that's not a good idea, you shouldn't do that.”

— Aiden Gabourel, Witness (ABC 7)

What’s next

The FDNY and NYPD are investigating the incident to determine if any charges will be filed against the three men for ignoring warnings about the dangers of walking on the frozen bay.

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the risks first responders face when attempting to save lives in hazardous conditions, as well as the importance of heeding warnings about the dangers of venturing onto frozen bodies of water, even when they appear to be solid. The incident serves as a reminder to the public to exercise caution and prioritize safety when faced with uncertain winter weather conditions.