In a tragic incident that unfolded on a winter morning, Kevin Howell, a dedicated town manager from Carmel, Maine, made the ultimate sacrifice to save his 4-year-old son after they both fell through the ice of Etna Pond. This heartbreaking story of a father’s love and heroism has left the town of Carmel in mourning.
On a cold Friday morning, Kevin Howell and his young son set out for a walk near Etna Pond, a popular spot for ice fishing and skating in Penobscot County. Tragically, the ice gave way beneath their weight, plunging them into the icy waters. Despite the perilous situation, Howell’s instincts kicked in, and he managed to lift his son onto the ice, urging him to run back home and summon help from his mother.
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With his son on his way to get help, Kevin Howell fought against the freezing waters, attempting to save himself and his wife. Katie Howell, upon hearing the distressing news from their son, immediately called 911 and rushed to the scene with an anchor and rope in hand. However, as she tried to secure the rope on the shore, tragedy struck again, and she too fell through the fragile ice, unable to escape its icy grip.
Fortunately, Penobscot County sheriff’s detective Jordan Norton was nearby and responded swiftly to the distress call. He spotted Katie struggling in the frigid water and wasted no time in springing into action. Crawling across the treacherous and fragile ice, Norton held onto the rope and managed to pull Katie to safety. However, despite their valiant efforts, Kevin Howell remained missing.
With the arrival of the Maine Warden Service, State Police, and the Carmel Fire Department, a rigorous search and recovery operation was launched. Six divers from the Warden Service and one State Police diver joined forces to locate Kevin Howell. After an intense search lasting approximately 20 minutes, divers were able to recover his lifeless body shortly before 2 p.m., almost 8 hours after the tragic incident occurred.
Kevin Howell was not only the town manager of Carmel but also a beloved member of the community. Throughout his eight-year tenure, he tirelessly worked to improve the town and make it a better place for its residents. His dedication and passion for community development earned him several accolades, including the town Leadership award in 2020. Beyond his professional life, Howell was a devoted family man who took immense pride in his young son, Sawyer.
During his time as town manager, Kevin Howell spearheaded various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Carmel. He played a pivotal role in the creation of a town landing, ensuring that residents had access to the natural beauty of Etna Pond. Additionally, he championed the construction of a new playground, providing a safe and enjoyable space for children in the community. One of his most significant achievements was revitalizing Carmel Days, an annual fall celebration that brought the community together.
The loss of Kevin Howell has left a profound void in the tight-knit community of Carmel. His unwavering commitment and dedication to the town’s welfare will be sorely missed. As news of his tragic demise spread, residents and town employees alike expressed their grief and solidarity by changing their Facebook profile pictures to an image of the town’s emblem adorned with a black ribbon, a symbol of mourning.
Beyond his role as town manager, Kevin Howell played a crucial part in shaping emergency medical services (EMS) in Maine. As a member of Maine’s second EMS Blue Ribbon Commission, Howell was instrumental in the development of a regional EMS system. His contributions to the Maine Bureau of EMS and his kindness towards his community and colleagues will always be remembered.
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Etna Pond, spanning approximately 361 acres with a depth of 12 feet, has long been a popular destination for ice fishing and skating enthusiasts. However, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk beneath the seemingly serene surface of frozen bodies of water. It is essential to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines when engaging in winter activities on frozen lakes and ponds.
The loss of Kevin Howell has deeply impacted the community of Carmel, leaving its residents in a state of mourning. As the town grapples with the tragic loss of a remarkable individual, support and condolences pour in from near and far. The Carmel selectmen issued a statement expressing profound sorrow and acknowledging Howell’s significant contributions to the town, emphasizing his unwavering commitment and tireless efforts to make Carmel the best it could be.
In the wake of this devastating event, the town of Carmel must now face the challenge of moving forward without its esteemed town manager. The selectmen will convene to determine the next steps in filling the void left by Kevin Howell’s untimely passing. His absence will be keenly felt, as he not only served as town manager but also fulfilled roles as tax collector and road commissioner. The legacy of Kevin Howell will endure in the hearts and minds of those who knew and worked alongside him, forever inspired by his selflessness and dedication.