Good Samaritan Pulls 74-Year-Old Who Was Drowning Out Of Oologah Lake

Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers said a 74-year-old Broken Arrow man was taken to the hospital after nearly drowning in Oologah Lake.

They said a Good Samaritan pulled him out and got him to shore before they arrived.

Related Story: Man Helps With Water Rescue On Oologah Lake, Victim In Critical Condition

Steve Fairley said he and his girlfriend, Crystal, were walking along Hawthorn Bluff at Oologah Lake, when they saw a man who was struggling to swim. That's when Fairley said he jumped in to help.

"I believe somebody wanted me to be here for that little bit of help that I did," said Fairley.

Fairley said he and Crystal were walking near the water when they saw 74-year-old Larry Powell struggling to get in his boat.

"He was doing like this and that's when he couldn't get it and jumped in," said Fairley.

Fairley said he saw Powell jump into the water and swim out to the boat.

"He was hanging on the edge of the boat trying to crawl in but couldn't do it,” said Fairley.

Fairley said Powell then started bobbing in the water and went over to Powell’s friend on the dock.

"I came up here and I asked his friend, can he swim and the boats like 25 to 35 yards out," said Fairley. 

So, Fairley jumped in to help.

"He was on his third bob going down and I had to go under the water to get him," said Fairley.

While Fairley was in the water, Crystal called 911.

Fairley said they were able to get Powell to the shore and Steve and Powell’s friend started CPR.

"I was like hurry up and get here, he didn't look good," said Crystal.

Fairley said first responders took over and took Larry to the hospital.

"It was pretty scary, I'll tell you that,” said Fairley.

Fairley said he and Crystal usually walk at Claremore Lake, but lately they've been picking different spots.

“Just yesterday we were in Disney walking,” said Fairley.

But on Wednesday morning, they were somehow in the right place at the right time.

"He wanted me to be here," said Fairley as he pointed up at the sky. 

At last check, troopers said Powell was in critical condition.