Sheriff’s sergeant and fire department captain praised for bravery for saving man who fall through ice on Elk Creek Lake

WASHINGTON CO. – In a heroic display of teamwork and courage, Washington County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Matt Hein and Gibson Township Fire Department Captain Andrew Mull are praised for their life-saving actions after a man fell through the ice on Wednesday, January 29, at approximately 4:39 p.m., while fishing on Elk Creek Lake.

Jasper Combs, 76, was fishing 100 feet from the shore on the lake when the unthinkable happened—he fell through the ice. Bernard Broadus, 67, of Georgetown, also fishing, attempted a valiant rescue. Broadus also fell through the ice but was able to rescue himself after approximately 5 minutes in the water. Combs was left clinging to the ice for nearly 45 minutes in freezing temperatures, rapidly losing strength as he struggled to stay afloat.

When Sgt. Hein and Capt. Mull arrived at the scene; they did not hesitate. The two first responders ran nearly half a mile through the woods surrounding the lake to reach Combs. They stepped onto the precarious frozen surface without hesitation, quickly assessing the situation.

With no time to waste, the pair threw a rope to Combs and pulled him to safety, first onto the ice and then to the shore. There, they immediately began rendering aid to the elderly fisherman, ensuring he was stable. Members of the Gibson Township Fire Department, Salem Fire Department, Scottsburg Fire Department, and Austin Fire Department carried Combs around the lake back to the boat ramp. He was evaluated by the Washington County Ambulance Service and transported to the University of Louisville Hospital by Air Methods medical transport.

Both men were flown to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment, and both are expected to recover fully.

Sgt. Hein and Capt. Mull’s swift actions and bravery are credited with saving Combs’ life.

“Their quick thinking and willingness to risk their safety to help others demonstrate the very best of public service and selflessness,” said Sheriff Brent Miller. “There is no doubt that the decisive efforts of Sgt. Hein and Capt. Mull made all the difference in ensuring his survival.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Department and Gibson Township Fire Department are proud of their officers’ heroic actions and are grateful for the ongoing support from the community.