Major emergency response as woman falls into Oxford river

Multiple police and fire service vehicles were seen yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, May 13) on the Eastern Bypass Road, near to Redbridge.

They were responding to reports that a person had fallen into the River Isis, the Oxford stretch of the River Thames.

An eyewitness who drove past the scene said: “Huge incident at Redbridge. Eleven emergency vehicles and people getting into river.”

READ MORE: Update amid pothole repair concerns on ‘Grand Canyon’ road

This morning police and the fire service have clarified what occurred.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called at 15:40, sending three fire engines and a specialist rescue vehicle to eastern bypass, Isis bridge, after a report of a person entering the water near the bridge.

The River Isis, which runs through Oxford (Image: Matthew Evans)

“The individual was assisted out of the water. Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service departed at approximately 16:30.”

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “Yesterday afternoon, Thames Valley Police responded alongside our colleagues from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service to an incident on the Eastern Bypass.

“Emergency services were called following reports of a woman who had entered the river.

The Eastern Bypass Road crosses the River Isis (Image: Google Maps)

“Thanks to the swift actions and professionalism of our fire service colleagues, a rescue team was quickly assembled, and the woman was safely recovered from the water.

“We are pleased to confirm that she did not sustain any long-lasting injuries and received prompt medical attention at the scene.

Redbridge, nearby to the incident (Image: Matthew Evans)

READ MORE: Arrests for ‘immigration offences’ and ‘prolific offending’ in Oxfordshire

“In order to ensure the safety of both the public and emergency responders, a temporary single-lane closure was put in place on the bypass while paramedics provided care.

“We would like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding while we dealt with this incident.

“Your safety remains our priority, and we appreciate your continued support.”