09/09/2026
On Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at approximately 6:15 p.m., the Springfield Township Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to Springfield Lake for a report of two individuals whose boat had broken down and was taking on water quickly.
Officer Ty Klapp deployed the drone and located the boaters near the middle of the lake when their boat began taking on water, leaving them stranded and prompting a call to 911. The water inside the boat was up to the occupants’ knees. As Springfield Township Police and Fire personnel responded, Officer Klapp contacted nearby resident Brian VanDevere for assistance. Without hesitation, Brian and his wife, Brianna, got onto their personal powerboat and immediately responded to help. The VanDeveres reached the stranded boaters in just 4 minutes and safely transported both individuals and their boat back to shore, preventing the boat from sinking.
Springfield Township would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Brian and Brianna VanDevere for their willingness to step up and help members of our community in a time of need. Their quick response and willingness to get involved are a great example of neighbors helping neighbors and the strong sense of community we are fortunate to have here in Springfield Township.
Thank you to the VanDeveres for answering the call and lending a helping hand in a time of need!
