Toddler airlifted to hospital after nearly drowning at West Point Lake

LAGRANGE, Ga. - A 3-year-old was rescued from a near drowning in West Point Lake on Monday evening.

Deputies responded to Yellow Jacket Beach around 6 p.m. where the child had been pulled underwater. A group of people at the beach pulled him out and were in the process of giving him CPR.

"A three-year-old did indeed go underwater," said Sgt. Stewart Smith, with the Troup County Sheriff's Office.

First responders took over until the child could be airlifted to a nearby hospital in Atlanta.

Troup County officials hold training at West Point Lake. (FOX 5 Atlanta)

Officials say the child is still there, as of Tuesday afternoon, receiving treatment.

"A body of water is very unforgiving," said Sgt. Smith.

He says the child somehow got separated from the adults at the beach during a gathering.

"The child was being supervised at some point, but again, got separated from the adults at the location," Sgt. Smith said.

He says there is always an increase in emergencies on the water during the summer months.

"We do unfortunately have drownings on West Point Lake," said Sgt. Smith.

With the long Fourth of July weekend approaching, and more people seeking relief from the heat, not to mention wanting to attend festivities, Sgt. Smith says simple precautions can help keep everyone safe.

"Especially for small children, lifejackets are a very helpful tool," said Sgt. Smith.

In addition to the use of proper floatation devices, Sgt. Smith says parents and guardians should always keep an eye on young children around the water. 

No charges are expected in the near-drowning.

FOX 5 Atlanta is working to learn more about this incident.