DNR officer recognized for life-saving efforts

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DNR officer recognized for life-saving efforts
(Released October 25, 2010)


The rescue efforts of a conservation officer with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be recognized Nov. 11 with the North Memorial Medical Center’s Minnesota Public Safety Service Award of Honor. Nelson will be formally recognized during an awards ceremony at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center.

State Conservation Officer Thor Nelson of Bloomington was on patrol in Minneapolis on March 25 when he was informed that a body was floating in the Mississippi River. Joining other law enforcement officers, Nelson saw the body, but the rushing waters quickly swept the victim past the officers’ position. Nelson and a Hennepin County deputy followed the body along the river bank, looking for a place to attempt a rescue.

With no time to launch a rescue boat, and the victim quickly approaching the falls of a river lock, Nelson braved the cold water, waded into the river, and swam 30-40 yards to retrieve the victim. Once on shore, Nelson performed CPR until paramedics arrived, but the victim could not be resuscitated and was declared deceased.

“We are all extremely proud of Conservation Officer Nelson,” said Col. Jim Konrad, DNR Enforcement Division director. “His courage and professionalism during this incident clearly displayed values of selfless service, duty and personal courage long associated with Minnesota’s conservation officers.”

Since 1984, the North Memorial Public Safety Service Awards Program has honored individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to public safety by demonstrating deep commitment to their profession or through courageous acts that are above and beyond the call of duty.