Kent Fire Department rescues more than 50 people, 8 dogs from river over the weekend

The Kent Fire Department rescued 51 and 8 dogs from the Cuyahoga River on Sunday, according to officials.

In a press release posted on social media, the department said it responded to the area of Middlebury Road boat ramp due to reports of 11 people that had fallen out of their rafts and could not get out of the fast-moving water. Officials said the initial dispatch reported six kids and five adults.

Upon arrival, crews quickly located the victims and began rescuing them through boat operations and shore support. During the rescue, the crew observed many other people coming down the river falling out or losing control of their rafts and kayaks due to the current. This resulted in an additional rescue near River Edge Park.

Officials said after approximately three hours, the rescue had been completed with 23 people and six dogs being pulled out of the water. 28 more people and two dogs were assisted out of the water downstream due to the dangerous conditions.

Kent Fire crews were assisted by the Portage County Water Rescue Team, Suffield Fire, Munroe Falls Fire, Stow Fire, and several other surrounding departments.

The department stated that due to several recent storms the river is high and has a fast current making it dangerous for boaters. Officials said several signs have been posted throughout the park warning people of the dangerous conditions.