Oglesby, Illinois — What began as a routine school field trip to a popular Illinois state park quickly turned into a major emergency after two young boys required airlift rescues following a frightening incident involving horseplay near water.
Authorities said the boys, ages 11 and 12, were among a group of more than 50 students visiting Matthiessen State Park when the situation unfolded Friday afternoon.
Emergency Call Sent First Responders to Park
According to Illinois Conservation Police, authorities were dispatched to the park at approximately 12:45 p.m. after receiving reports of an unconscious juvenile.
The state park is located a few miles from both Utica and Oglesby, attracting visitors with its scenic trails, canyons and waterfalls. When emergency crews were alerted, they learned that two boys had been involved in what officials later described as horseplay.
Illinois Conservation Police Sergeant Phil Wire said the boys had been “rough-housing and engaging in horseplay.”
Child Reportedly Became Unconscious After Inhaling Water
Authorities said the incident escalated when one of the boys inhaled water and lost consciousness.
The exact circumstances surrounding how the child entered the water have not been fully detailed, but officials confirmed the situation quickly became serious enough to require emergency intervention.
While waiting for first responders to arrive, an adult chaperone accompanying the field trip immediately began life-saving measures.
According to reports, the chaperone performed CPR on the unconscious child until emergency personnel reached the scene. The quick response may have played a critical role in stabilizing the boy before professional medical help arrived.
Both Boys Transported by Air Ambulance
First responders arrived approximately 15 minutes after the emergency call was placed. By that time, authorities said both children were conscious and alert.
However, officials noted that the boys continued to display signs of shock and distress, leading medical personnel to take additional precautions.
As a result, both children were airlifted to OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois for further evaluation and treatment. The first boy was transported by helicopter at approximately 2:01 p.m., while the second was flown out about 20 minutes later.
Authorities said the second airlift was conducted as a precaution in case complications developed following the incident.
Injuries Not Considered Life-Threatening
Fortunately, officials reported that neither child suffered life-threatening injuries.
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Medical personnel continued monitoring both boys after their arrival at the hospital, but authorities indicated that their conditions appeared stable.
The incident nevertheless created a tense and emotional scene for classmates, teachers and chaperones participating in the school outing.
Park Rules Highlight Safety Concerns
Following the incident, attention has also been drawn to safety regulations at Matthiessen State Park.
According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, visitors are prohibited from leaving designated trails or creating their own paths through the park.
The department’s website specifically warns visitors:
“Please follow paved trails that are wider than two people and marked with posts, dots on trees, and maps at intersections.”
Officials also remind visitors that swimming is not allowed in park waters.
The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly playful behavior can become dangerous, particularly around natural water features and rugged outdoor environments.
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