A major emergency operation is currently underway at the base of the Sheppey Bridge following reports of a man in distress atop the old Sheppey Crossing.
Police, fire crews, Coastguard, paramedics, and air ambulances have all been dispatched to the scene after the incident was reported.
Authorities quickly closed the old crossing to traffic this morning after receiving a call at 9am expressing concern for the man’s welfare on the A249. Kent Police confirmed they were alerted to the situation and responded promptly.
Two ambulances, a fire engine, and South East Coast Ambulance Service’s HART team rushed to the location. Additionally, air ambulances from Kent, Sussex, and Surrey landed near Ferry Road to assist with the rescue efforts.
Coastguard search and rescue teams, equipped with dry suits, have been seen entering the water to support the operation. Medical teams, including doctors and paramedics, performed a rapid sequence induction on a grass bank near the bridge to stabilise the man.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service also responded at 9.15am, deploying two fire engines and the water safety unit to aid the ongoing rescue near 1 Way, Iwade, Sittingbourne.
Emergency services remain on site as the rescue continues. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Originally published by UKNIP.
