Sterling Heights, Michigan – On Saturday, May 10, 2025, at around 2:30 p.m., Officer Nikolas Bruno responded to an emergency call at the Clinton River in Riverland Park.

A female kayaker was stranded, clinging to a downed tree in the river. She was not wearing a life jacket and was visibly panicked.

Officer Bruno quickly removed his duty gear and entered the water without hesitation.

He jumped into the river and navigated over a dam of logs to reach the woman.

A nearby good Samaritan provided a life jacket, which Officer Bruno helped secure on the woman.

He then swam her safely back to shore.

The woman’s daughter, who had also lost her kayak, was found safe on the log dam. She was later rescued by the Sterling Heights Fire Department.

The rescued woman explained that she, her daughter, and her niece were kayaking for the first time.

Her kayak capsized after hitting a downed tree. She struck her head and was barely holding on when Officer Bruno reached her.

Officer Bruno, a U.S. Navy veteran, showed exceptional bravery and selflessness.

His actions reflect the highest standards of duty and service to the community.

This rescue is another example of Sterling Heights Police going above and beyond to protect residents.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download