Pair saved swimmer
Two men who aided a drowning victim were honored in City Hall ceremonies last week with many residents and a cadre of local politicians in attendance. Residents Christian Sandor and Joe Lombard were honored for rescuing Fred Santoro at Indian Wells State Park three weeks ago.
The pair of city residents leapt into action while enjoying a day at the state park, Aug. 1 A man is alive today as the result of the quick thinking and teamwork of two West Haven men. Both entered the water immediately and retrieved the victim who by then was unconscious.
They performed CPR, and, once they were satisfied that the victim had resumed breathing on his own, Sandor ran to get help. Authorities were notified, and the victim was taken to Yale-New Haven Hospital by Lifestar Helicopter.
On hand to congratulate these young men were Mayor Nancy Rossi, her assistant Lou Esposito, City Councilman Steve Mullins, State Reps. Charles Ferraro (R-117), Dorinda Borer (D-115) and candidate Pam Staneski. A grateful city and state awarded the young men with citations and gifts given by local businesses.The young man whom they saved—Fred Santoro—shook hands with Christian Sandor, and gave him his heartfelt thanks. Unfortunately, Joe Lombard was unable to attend the ceremony, due to illness.
Sandor is an Eagle Scout of Troop 802; this fall he will attend SUNY Maritime in the Bronx, majoring in naval architecture.
Lombard is currently joining the U.S. Air Force, and will begin basic training in Texas later this month. He is a 2nd lieutenant of emergency services in the USAF Auxiliary Composite Squadron in Plainville.