On Wednesday at 4:46 p.m., Pike County Emergency Services (PCES) responded to a report of victims stranded in a flooded area near Plantation Road after a caller reported hearing cries for help. The incident resulted in the successful rescue of Christopher Parks, 23, and Amy Holt, 19.

Upon arrival, fire personnel spoke with the complainant, Leroy Parks.

Leroy Parks said that at approximately 4 p.m. he found a note from his son, Christopher Parks, explaining that he and Amy Holt were “going rafting” in Potato Creek.

Leroy Parks became concerned and tried calling out to his son and Holt. Christopher Parks and Holt relayed that they were stranded and needed help. Leroy Parks then phoned 911.

Fire crews were able to communicate with Christopher Parks and Holt, and though the two could not be seen, their estimated location was determined to be approximately 100 yards into the flooded area.

Due to the depth and speed of floodwaters, personnel prepared for a water rescue.

The Pike County Dive Team was activated for its water rescue capability and the newly formed Tactical Response Team was activated for its rope rescue abilities.

Assistant Chief Ron Snowden of the Meansville Fire Department also responded by bringing the Pike County Emergency Services’ boat.

At 5:11 pm Capt. Brian Michel, Lt. Josh Childs and firefighter Benji Manley worked their way to the victims in the PCES boat.

At 5:26 p.m. personnel successfully moved the victims to safety without incident.

Christopher Parks and Holt were then checked for injury and signs of hypothermia by medical personnel from Mid Georgia Ambulance. The two refused transport to a hospital.

Christopher Parks and Holt told rescuers that at approximately 3 p.m. they used an air mattress to enter floodwaters, paddling into the main current.

Christopher Parks and Holt said that the current was strong and quickly carried them away from shore. The two were able to reach a wooded area that was above the water line and attempted to walk back to shore. They said that the current was too strong and that the water was too cold to continue. Christopher Parks and Holt decided to return to high ground and try to call for help.

“Sadly, this isn’t the first time we have had one of these incidents this year,” said Michel. “Flooded areas are extremely unsafe and should not be entered. There are hazards, changing currents and submerged dangers. The two victims were, to say the least, very fortunate today. With the cold weather and rising water the outcome could have been very different.”

Battalion Chief Lance Blythe acted as the incident commander, and Michel served as the lead rescuer. The Pike County Sheriff’s Office was also on scene to assist. Lamar County responded with its dive team as well, but it was canceled en route.