New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier recently helped rescue a family of four, including two children, who encountered trouble in a rubber boat on the Aare River in his native Switzerland. The incident occurred over the weekend while Hischier was visiting home during his summer break.
According to Swiss news outlet 20 Minuten, the family was in distress near a dam and reportedly unable to leave the dangerous area on their own. Hischier was present and assisted local police as they responded to the situation. Authorities were able to pull the boat ashore using a throw bag, ensuring the family was rescued unharmed.
Hischier helped guide the family to safety at the Engehalde weir footbridge. First responders arrived on the scene and completed the rescue. One witness described Hischier's actions as heroic.
Hischier, however, downplayed his role in the rescue. "In this situation, everyone is grateful for support, and we were all relieved that no one was hurt in the end," he told 20 Minuten. The Devils team reporter, Amanda Stein, commented that it was "the most Nico story of all time."
The rescue occurred days after Hischier signed a five-year contract extension with the Devils, worth $58.5 million. He is committed to the team through the 2031-32 season and is approaching a franchise record for goals scored.