JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – In a courageous act, Skylar Schmeichel and Shane Weiss, two local fishermen, rescued a Jamestown man after his snowmobile plunged through thin ice on Jamestown Reservoir on Monday, Jan. 8.

The incident unfolded around 12:15 p.m. when Cody Deese’s snowmobile broke through the ice. Hearing the commotion, Schmeichel and Weiss, who were fishing nearby, immediately sprang into action. Observing Deese struggling in the icy water, they dialed 911 and devised a resourceful plan, utilizing their jackets as an improvised rope.

Schmeichel crawled towards Deese, extending the makeshift rope, while Weiss secured the rescuer’s legs. Together, they skillfully navigated through the thin ice, successfully pulling Deese to safety on thicker ice. Once ashore, Jamestown Area Ambulance swiftly transported Deese to Jamestown Regional Medical Center. Despite the ordeal, Deese opted not to receive medical assistance and left the hospital, according to Sheriff Kaiser.

The Stutsman County Dive Team and the North Dakota Highway Patrol promptly arrived at the scene, contributing to the coordinated efforts in managing the emergency situation.