Ryan honors State Park Police officer with commendation award

Nathan Sibenik receives state recognition for lifesaving intervention in Niagara River Rapids

Submitted by the Office of New York State Sen. Sean Ryan

On Monday, New York State Sen. Sean Ryan presented a New York State Senate Commendation Award to New York State Park Police officer Nathan Sibenik in recognition of his heroic intervention to prevent a woman from drowning in the Niagara River.

In July, while patrolling Niagara Falls State Park, Sibenik was alerted by parkgoers that a woman had entered the river’s rapids and needed help. Without hesitation, Sibenik jumped into the water and swam toward the woman. Drawing on his intensive emergency training as a member of the Park Police swiftwater rescue team, he was able to reach the woman in time and bring her safely to shore. The woman was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment and care.

Ryan said, “I am honored to be able to present officer Sibenik with a small token of our community’s appreciation for his service and for the bravery he showed saving that woman’s life. His heroic actions are a testament to the preparedness of the State Park Police and the incredible work that first responders do in our community each and every day.”