The Burlington Fire Department was first on the scene when an elderly man was reported stuck in the mud of the Winooski River Sunday, September 1.

The incident occurred near the “Blue Bridge,” a railroad bridge that straddles the border between Burlington and Winooski. He was on the Colchester side of the river.

A crosstown emergency effort was required to free the man. After several continuous attempts the man was extracted from the water via rescue boat. He sustained minor injuries and was taken directly to the hospital. 

The Burlington Fire Department reminds Vermonters that swimming or walking near the river may be unsafe. Flotation devices and extreme caution are heavily recommended.

Stealing the Cookie Jar 

Police are seeking a man who stole a donation jar from a local bakesale in Windham County. 

The bakesale was hosted by “Brattleboro Time Trade” at the Guilford Welcome Center, with the goal of fundraising for the community. 

The incident occurred around 2 PM Sunday. Members of the bake sale were able to identify the perpetrator as a Caucasian male, about 6 feet tall, slim build wearing a blue baseball hat. 

The suspect ran off with the jar and into a dark colored sedan near Broad Brook Road in Guilford. 

If you have any information about the suspect please contact Trooper Marie Beland at (802)722-4600 x3 or Marie.Beland@vermont.gov.  Tips may be submitted anonymously by texting keyword VTIPS to 274637 (CRIMES). Tips may also be submitted online by using the form available at this link.

Lewd Conduct on Hiking Trail 

The Vermont State Police have arrested Donald Gillespie, 58, of Athens for alleged lewd behavior in Dummerston.

Police say the incident occurred on the West River hiking trail. After a short investigation, police took Gillespie into custody on the charge of lewd and lascivious conduct. He is due in court on September 3, at 12:30 PM.