Columbus officer pulls toddler out of pond in Northeast Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) – A toddler was rushed to Nationwide Children's hospital in critical condition Thursday afternoon after Columbus police said she fell into a pond at an apartment complex on Royal Crescent.

A Columbus officer was the first on the scene after he was nearby on patrol. He jumped in to try to save the girl.

"The officer dove into the water and swam out about 15 feet," Sgt. William Shultz said. "He grabbed a hold of the child and was able to bring the child back to the grass area by the edge of the pond."

The officer performed CPR until medics could arrive and rush her to the hospital. Shultz said the entire department is under pressure right now. Protests continue to happen in all areas of the city, but they still have a job to do.

"The public needs us out here," Shultz said. "These types of events are still happening. Domestic violence, theft offenses, missing children and other emergencies that we have to respond to."

He said the department has been divided up so officers can provide a safe area for protesters while answering emergency calls. Officers are also working 12-hour shifts with no days off.

"I couldn't be more proud," Shultz said. "This is why we do this job. People need us. It comes from the compassion we have for the people of this city."

A Columbus native himself, Shultz said he is determined to be a part of the solution while keeping everyone safe.

"We are really trying hard to bring this to a place where peacefully people can protest and demonstrate safely and property is protected."

The young girl is still holding on to life in the hospital. No charges have been filed in the case.