Fall River EMS recognizes paramedic after attempted rescue in Taunton River

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — Fall River Emergency Medical Services recognized a paramedic after he attempted to rescue a person from the Taunton River on Oct. 10.

Around 11:15 a.m., police were notified of a person “potentially in need of medical attention” in the area of 120 Charles Street.

During the response, police were contact by National Grid employees who spotted the individual walking near the end of Birch Street.

The employees said the individual “appeared to be unsteady,” according to Fall River EMS.

During the search, paramedic Edward Holland and officer Gregory Homan found the person floating face down in the Taunton River.

According to Fall River EMS, Holland immediately entered the water and swam 30 yards to the individual.

He then turned the individual face-up and swam them back to shore, where Homan assisted.

“Despite the tragic result of this event… I wish to acknowledge the heroism and bravery demonstrated by paramedic Edward Holland the morning of October 10, 2025,” Fall River EMS Chief Bethann Faunce said. “Relying on his experience as a swimmer, and an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, paramedic Holland placed the value of preserving life safety above his own safety and acted with courage.”