New York State Park Police Officer Nathan Sibenik was presented a New York State Senate Commendation Award during a ceremony on Grand Island Tuesday in recognition of his efforts to prevent a woman from drowning in the Niagara River.
In July, while patrolling Niagara Falls State Park, Sibenik was alerted by parkgoers that a woman had entered the river’s rapids and needed help. Without hesitation, he jumped into the water and swam toward the woman. Drawing on his intensive emergency training as a member of the Park Police Swiftwater Rescue Team, he was able to reach the woman in time and bring her safely to shore. The woman was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment and care.
“I am honored to be able to present Officer Sibenik with a small token of our community’s appreciation for his service and for the bravery he showed saving that woman’s life. His heroic actions are a testament to the preparedness of the State Park Police and the incredible work that first responders do in our community each and every day,” said state Sen. Sean Ryan who presented the award Tuesday.