Lake County police officers rescue fleeing woman after she runs into Lake Erie

MENTOR-ON-THE-LAKE, Ohio — Officers rescued a woman from an icy Lake Erie after she ran into the water while attempting to flee, police say.

A news release from the Mentor-on-the-Lake Police Department says Patrolman Gregory Gedeon and Sgt. Kevin Brodzinski were called to Mentor Beach Park on Lakeshore Boulevard just before midnight Monday for reports of suspicious activity.

The officers located a vehicle and when they approached, the woman inside drove off, leading to a brief car chase.

The woman parked at Mentor Beach Park and ran from her vehicle and into Lake Erie. The water temperature in the lake is about 42 degrees.

Gedeon was able to grab hold of the woman, who was half-submerged, police say. The woman was brought to shore and received medical help from police officers and emergency workers with the Mentor-on-the-Lake Fire Department and Mentor Fire Department.

“Their quick thinking, teamwork, and unwavering dedication undoubtedly saved a life,” police Lt. Tina Messinger said in the news release.

Gedeon sustained minor injuries, while Sgt. Brodzinski was taken to a hospital after suffering a leg injury while scaling the icy rocks along the shoreline while trying to apprehend the woman, police say. He is expected to make a full recovery.

“Ptl. Gregory Gedeon and Sgt. Kevin Brodzinski demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment to protecting our community,” Messinger said. “We remain deeply grateful for their courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication to protecting our community.”