Watch: Kan. firefighters, police save toddler trapped in PVC pipe

By Mike Stunson
The Charlotte Observer

MOUNDRIDGE, Kan. — A toddler is shaken, but otherwise unharmed, after being rescued from the bottom of an underground PVC pipe, Kansas authorities say.

The Moundridge Police Department said the 14-month-old child became stuck in the PVC pipe — just 12 inches in diameter —around 2 p.m. Sunday, July 28.

Authorities found the child “upright in the bottom of the pipe,” which police said was 10 to 12 feet deep.

One police officer’s “creative” approach to get the child out was “instrumental” in the rescue, police said. The child was lifted from the pipe through a makeshift “catch pole” that the officer constructed using rope and a smaller PVC pipe, the department said.

The rescue took 15 to 20 minutes and officers said the child was uninjured.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to all the first responders for their swift and effective action, which transformed a dangerous situation into a successful rescue,” police said.

Moundridge is about a 40-mile drive northwest from Wichita.

Trending

Fire Department Management

N.Y. village hires 20 part-time firefighters as volunteer ranks shrink

Minoa added 20 paid firefighters to bolster daytime coverage after its volunteer ranks fell from about 80 members to 30, with fewer than 20 regularly responding

September 17, 2026 08:02 AM

Health & Wellness

NREMT launches study to track long-term health effects of fire, EMS careers

A multi-disciplinary team of researchers will study the cumulative effects of harmful exposures, workplace violence, injuries and psychological stress on firefighters and EMS providers

September 17, 2026 06:39 AM

 · 

FireRescue1 Staff

Labor and Union Issues

Conn. fire company disputes former EMS captain’s claims of poor management

Chesterfield Fire Company leaders allege Stephanie Kneier had ongoing disciplinary issues; Kneier says she was notified of her suspension after speaking publicly

September 17, 2026 07:11 AM

Legislation and Funding

Idaho officials delay decision on $5.2M FD training center after residents object to location

Eagle officials postponed a decision on a proposed fire training and public works facility after residents raised concerns about its location next to a popular bike park

September 17, 2026 07:47 AM

—

©2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.