ARNOLD, Md. — On February 23, 2025, Anne Arundel County Police officers and a firefighter paramedic rescued a man from the icy waters of Twin Harbors Marina in Arnold, saving his life through swift and coordinated action. The incident began around 6 p.m. when Kathleen Gardiner called 911, reporting that her husband, Scott Gardiner, had fallen into the freezing water near the marina’s dock. Within minutes, first responders arrived, pulling Scott to safety and preventing a potential tragedy.
The rescue team included Anne Arundel County Police officers Corporal Bilter, Corporal Keller, and Officer Sattler, alongside Firefighter Paramedic Danielle Murray of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department. Their rapid response was critical in overcoming the cold temperatures and treacherous conditions to ensure Scott’s survival. Police Communications Operators Yvette Lipscomb and Meghann Alder handled the 911 call with calm efficiency, dispatching resources quickly and coordinating the emergency response.
“Scott and Kathleen Gardiner extend their deepest gratitude to Corporal Bilter, Corporal Keller, Officer Sattler, Anne Arundel County Firefighter Paramedic Danielle Murray, and Police Communications Operators Yvette Lipscomb and Meghann Alder, who handled Kathleen’s 911 call, for their life-saving work that evening!” the Anne Arundel County Police Department stated in a public announcement.
On March 30, 2025, the Gardiners visited the Eastern District police station to personally thank the responders. The couple expressed profound appreciation for the team’s bravery and teamwork, crediting them for Scott’s survival. The police department highlighted the rescue as a testament to the dedication and courage of its first responders, who worked seamlessly with the fire department to achieve a successful outcome.
The Twin Harbors Marina, located along the Severn River in Arnold, is a small community facility used by residents for boating and recreation. Winter conditions often make docks slippery, increasing the risk of falls into cold water. On the evening of the incident, temperatures in the region were below freezing, raising the risk of hypothermia, which can set in within minutes in such conditions. The responders’ speed was crucial in preventing serious injury or worse.
The rescue underscores the importance of collaboration between the Anne Arundel County Police and Fire Departments, which regularly train together for water-related emergencies. The county’s waterfront communities, including Arnold, see frequent calls for water rescues, with hundreds reported annually. This incident highlights the responders’ preparedness and commitment to protecting residents.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department serves a population of nearly 588,000 and maintains a strong presence in the Eastern District, which includes Arnold. The department has recently enhanced its emergency response capabilities, including improved coordination through advanced technology. The responders’ actions in this rescue reflect their ongoing mission to serve and safeguard the community.
The Gardiners’ gratitude has resonated widely, with the police department sharing details of the rescue to honor the team’s efforts. The incident serves as a powerful example of the skill, bravery, and teamwork that define Anne Arundel County’s first responders.
