Man Saved From West Grand Traverse Bay
TRAVERSE CITY -- Paul Reid has fished the West Grand Traverse Bay for more than 50 years, but Saturday afternoon the tranquil waters of northern Michigan almost claimed his life.
“The balance of the boat went the wrong direction and I flipped over,” Reid said.
About 300 yards from shore, Reid struggled to keep his composure as he waited for help.
“When you’re in a bad situation, stay calm,” said Reid.
About 20 minutes after his boat capsized, a couple spotted Reid while driving along Peninsula Drive.
“When you do this drive you always look at the water. We noticed the boat capsized so we pulled right here...I just immediately called 9-1-1,” said Ron Fitzsimmons.
Fitzsimmons then helped get the attention of another boater.
“They stopped fishing and came quickly. We literally saw them pull him [Reid] out of the water,” Fitzsimmons said.
Reid was rushed to Munson Medical Center, where he was treated for hypothermia and frost bite.
“I didn't remember the ride in the ambulance and I was at the hospital for about 2 hours before I had any response at all,” said Reid.
Reid said the near-death experience will not keep him from getting back out on the lake again soon.
