Toddler falls more than 10 feet down into sump pump drain

The 14-month-old boy was "understandably shaken," but not injured, police said.

ByJulia Reinstein ABCNews logo
Thursday, August 1, 2024
Kansas toddler rescued after falling into PVC pipe
A toddler was rescued Sunday afternoon after getting stuck underground in a PVC pipe, officials said.

A toddler was rescued Sunday afternoon after getting stuck underground in a PVC pipe, officials said.

Emergency responders in Moundridge, Kansas, "acted swiftly and worked diligently for approximately 15-20 minutes to safely recover the child," the Moundridge Police Department said in a press release.

The 14-month-old boy was "understandably shaken," but was not injured in the incident, police said.

Moundridge, Kansas Police Department body camera footage shows the rescue of a 14-month-old boy from a PVC pipe, July, 28, 2024.
Moundridge, Kansas Police Department body camera footage shows the rescue of a 14-month-old boy from a PVC pipe, July, 28, 2024.
Moundridge Police Department

The boy fell into the sump pump drain while playing outside, according to Wichita, Kansas, ABC affiliate KAKE.

"Kids are always a concern, especially small kids," Moundridge EMS Director Brian Falco told KAKE. "He doesn't communicate. He doesn't follow instructions. It's not like an adult."

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The pipe was about 1 foot in diameter and about 10 to 12 feet deep, police said.

Police specifically commended one officer, identified as Officer Ronnie Wagner, who they said "constructed a makeshift 'catch pole' using a smaller PVC pipe and rope."

Moundridge, Kansas Police Department body camera footage shows the rescue of a 14-month-old boy from a PVC pipe, July, 28, 2024.
Moundridge, Kansas Police Department body camera footage shows the rescue of a 14-month-old boy from a PVC pipe, July, 28, 2024.
Moundridge Police Department

"This creative solution was instrumental in lifting the child safely from the pipe," police said.

Police thanked first responders for their work in rescuing the toddler.

"We extend our deepest gratitude to all the first responders for their swift and effective action, which transformed a dangerous situation into a successful rescue," police said.

ABC News' Alex Faul contributed to this report.

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