A reckless stunt on a frozen New Jersey lake ended with a pickup truck partially submerged and first responders forced into a dangerous rescue operation that ultimately proved unnecessary. The incident occurred at Stafford Forge Lake in Eagleswood Township, Ocean County, when a 44-year-old man drove his truck onto thin ice and began doing donuts, causing the ice to give way beneath the vehicle.

Emergency crews were dispatched under the assumption that someone may have been trapped inside the sinking truck. Dive teams and EMS personnel immediately initiated water rescue protocols, carefully maneuvering across unstable ice while preparing for the possibility of a life-threatening recovery. The response involved multiple agencies and placed first responders at significant personal risk due to the unpredictable ice conditions.

Fortunately, the truck was found to be empty and no injuries were reported. While that outcome prevented a tragedy, officials emphasized that the situation was entirely preventable. The unnecessary emergency response diverted critical resources and exposed rescue personnel to hazards that could have resulted in serious injury or worse.

Authorities made clear that driving vehicles onto frozen lakes—especially for stunts such as donuts—is extremely dangerous and irresponsible. Ice thickness can vary dramatically across short distances, and even cold temperatures do not guarantee safe conditions. What may appear solid can fail without warning, particularly under the weight and torque of a moving vehicle.

While no lives were lost, the incident stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of poor judgment. Emergency crews responded professionally and decisively, but officials stressed that the driver must be held accountable for placing others in harm’s way. Reckless behavior on frozen waterways not only endangers the individual involved, but also the first responders who are called upon to deal with the aftermath.