Kayakers rescued from Cedar Creek with help from neighbor after hitting log, overturning

CEDARBURG -- Two kayakers were rescued Wednesday, Aug. 29 after overturning in Cedar Creek in Cedarburg in Ozaukee County.

Officials said it happened when the kayakers, a husband and wife, hit a log. Maureen Hackett, a neighbor, came to their aid. She said she didn't hesitate when she saw two heads bobbing in the water behind her home.

"Saw a head bobbing in the water. Ran out and then I saw another one," said Hackett.

She grabbed a surfboard and rope, and jumped into the water.

"It was surprising for how fast it dropped. I took two, three steps and it was over my head. There was no way I could swim against the current," said Hackett.

Hackett helped the woman stay afloat with the board, and tied the rope around the man who was struggling to hang onto a tree.

"I just wanted to make sure he was OK and wouldn't let go because I knew he was too big for us to, if he passed out or something," said Hackett.

Meanwhile, Hackett's son called 911.

Even as the water moved fast, Hackett said her focus was on the people she was trying to help.

"I knew they were coming and I just kept telling him to hold on and he looked like he was going into shock," said Hackett.

The Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office and Cedarburg and Grafton Fire Departments helped pull everyone to safety -- bringing relief to Hackett's son.

"She was fine at the end, but I was still worried for her," said Samson Hackett.

The wife was treated at the scene. The husband was taken to the hospital.

"I don't feel like a hero. I feel lucky that I saw it though, for sure," said Maureen Hackett.

A FOX6 viewer captured video of rushing water at Cedar Creek earlier Wednesday -- after three straight days of storms has led to severe flooding in the area. Sheriff's officials said they wanted to remind people to stay off the water amid severe flooding that has prompted a state of emergency in Ozaukee County.