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HESPERIA – A 55-year-old Hesperia man is fortunate to be alive after falling in the aqueduct while fishing on Monday.

The fisherman, John Taliaferro, was fishing on the bank of the Aqueduct on Main Street near Escondido Avenue just before 11:58 a.m. and slid into the water. He screamed out for help and a Hesperia resident walking over the Aqueduct on Main Street heard his cries for help and splashing sounds. After seeing Mr. Taliaferro struggling to stay afloat, he sprung into action using a piece of clothing to reach him. He was able to get Taliaferro to the side and hold him there while he called 911.

Fortunately, deputies and a Hesperia Station Sergeant were nearby and arrived shortly after the call. The deputy and sergeant were able to throw a rescue throw rope to Taliaferro and pull him to safety. Taliaferro suffered shock and exposure due to the extremely low temperatures. Paramedics arrived and treated Taliaferro.

Hesperia Station officials remind citizens to remain cautious when near the Aqueduct. Although the water may not appear to be moving very fast, it is likely moving faster than it appears and it can be dangerous to someone who enters the water. The temperatures are low and will fall lower as winter arrives. The cold temperatures can cause life-threatening health conditions rather quickly.