Pasco County, Florida — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer is being recognized for his quick actions after rescuing a young child from a pool emergency that could have ended in tragedy.
According to officials, Gregory Simmonds, an officer with ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations office in Tampa, was at a community pool in Pasco County when he noticed a 6-year-old girl floating unconscious in the water.
What happened next was captured on surveillance footage and has since drawn praise from law enforcement and federal officials.
Officer Reacts Within Seconds
Authorities said Simmonds immediately recognized that the child was in danger.
Video from the pool reportedly shows him looking toward the water before quickly jumping into the pool fully clothed and swimming directly to the child.
Without waiting for assistance, Simmonds pulled the girl from the water and carried her to the pool deck, where emergency aid efforts began.
Officials said the officer immediately started administering CPR in an effort to revive the child. The rapid response proved critical.
According to authorities, the child regained consciousness after receiving lifesaving care and is now expected to make a full recovery.
Law Enforcement Praises Officer’s Actions
Federal and local officials credited Simmonds’ quick thinking and willingness to act during a life-threatening emergency. Acting Assistant DHS Secretary Lauren Bis commended the officer for stepping in when every second mattered.
“This officer swiftly sprung to action and delivered life-saving medical care to this 6-year-old who drowned,” Bis said.
Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Cpl. J. Leathers also praised the rescue and highlighted the importance of immediate action during emergencies involving children.
“His actions directly contributed to saving the life of the child and reflect exceptional courage and selflessness.”
Officials said Simmonds’ decision to intervene without hesitation played a direct role in the child’s survival.
Latest in a Series of Emergency Rescues
The Florida rescue is one of several recent incidents in which Department of Homeland Security personnel have been credited with helping people during unexpected medical emergencies.
Earlier this year, a federal agent assisting at John F. Kennedy International Airport reportedly helped save the life of a 1-year-old child experiencing a medical emergency inside a terminal.
In another case, off-duty ICE agents dining at a restaurant in Minnesota responded after being alerted to a child struggling in a hotel pool. Officials said the agents performed CPR until emergency responders arrived.
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Federal officials have pointed to these incidents as examples of officers using their training to respond in critical situations both on and off duty.
Child Expected to Recover
Authorities have not released the identity of the child involved in the Pasco County incident, but officials said she is expected to recover fully.
Water safety experts frequently stress that drowning emergencies can happen quickly and quietly, often without the dramatic signs many people associate with distress in the water.
In this case, officials say a vigilant bystander with emergency training made all the difference.
The surveillance footage underscores how rapidly the situation unfolded and how a matter of seconds can determine the outcome in water-related emergencies.
As the young girl continues her recovery, many are praising Simmonds for his decisive response and commitment to helping others during a moment of crisis.
What are your thoughts on this rescue? Have you ever witnessed a bystander or first responder step in during an emergency? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
