Suffolk County teen rescued from sinking mud using phone flashlight

Police helicopter located the 15-year-old after he signaled with his phone light in Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 15-year-old Suffolk County resident was rescued from sinking mud in a wildlife refuge on Sunday evening after becoming stuck and calling 911. The teen used his phone's flashlight to signal a police helicopter, which then guided emergency responders to his location and pulled him to safety.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of being prepared when venturing into remote natural areas, as well as the life-saving potential of modern technology like smartphones. It also underscores the value of coordinated emergency response efforts between law enforcement, aviation, and ground teams.

The details

The 15-year-old had been walking in the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge in Shirley, New York when he stepped into an offshoot of the Carmans River and became stuck in the mud. He called 911 around 7:30 pm and was instructed to use his phone's flashlight to signal rescuers. A Suffolk County Police helicopter located the teen and directed ground teams to pull him from the mud just before 8:30 pm. The teen was then escorted out of the woods and taken to a local hospital for evaluation.

  • The 911 call came in around 7:30 pm on Sunday, April 6, 2026.
  • The teen was located and rescued just before 8:30 pm on the same evening.

The players

Suffolk County Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that coordinated the rescue effort, including deploying a helicopter to locate the stranded teen.

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge

The protected natural area in Shirley, New York where the incident occurred, featuring trails and waterways that can pose risks to unprepared visitors.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This incident highlights the importance of being prepared when venturing into remote natural areas, as well as the life-saving potential of modern technology like smartphones.”

— Suffolk County Police Department, Statement

The takeaway

This rescue serves as a reminder for all outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution, carry essential safety gear, and be prepared to call for help if needed when exploring natural areas, even close to home. The teen's quick thinking to use his phone's flashlight likely played a crucial role in his timely rescue.