Hunters rescued from Lake McConaughy mud flats; fire crews later battle large blaze at Sandy Beach
Two hunters and their dog were rescued from the mud flats at Lake McConaughy before firefighters battled a major blaze at Sandy Beach Paradise late into the night.
By News Channel Nebraska
LAKE MCCOUNAUGHY - Two hunters were rescued from the mud flats near the Cedar View area of Lake McConaughy on Monday after becoming trapped while out with their dog, according to Keystone-Lemoyne Fire and Rescue.
Fire officials said the Lake McConaughy Dive Rescue Team responded and contacted Nebraska Game and Parks to assist with an airboat. A rescuer in a cold-water survival suit helped remove one hunter from the mud and water, followed by a second hunter and his dog. Both men were transported by Garden County EMS for treatment of hypothermia.
Assisting at the scene were Nebraska Game and Parks, Lewellen Fire Department, the Keith County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Keith County EMS with a drone and the Lake McConaughy Dive Rescue Team.
Shortly after that rescue, Keystone-Lemoyne Fire and Rescue and multiple departments were called to a large structure fire at Sandy Beach Paradise. When firefighters arrived, the building was fully engulfed, with flames threatening nearby structures.
Crews from Ogallala, Brule, Paxton, Grant, Sutherland and Big Springs assisted with engines, tenders, manpower and command units. The Keith County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Keith County EMS and Keith County Emergency Management also responded.
Firefighters remained on scene until around midnight conducting overhaul and mop-up. The structure was declared a total loss.