A happy ending to a troubling scenario that played out in central Newfoundland overnight.

Officials were notified late yesterday evening after someone noticed an ice auger and an orange cushion next to a hole in the ice, prompting concerns that someone had fallen through on Indian Arm Pond just off the Trans Canada between Lewisporte Junction and Glenwood.

Exploits Search and Rescue says within minutes 25 volunteers had gathered in stormy conditions to assist in the search.

After a full night searching, officials were notified this morning that a man had indeed fallen through the ice, but he was rescued by a friend.

Earlier Story

Gander and Lewisporte RCMP are investigating the possibility that someone ice fishing in the southern end of Indian Arm Pond, just off the Trans Canada between Lewisporte and Glenwood, may have gone through the ice.

A resident observed an ice auger sticking out from a hole in the ice and an orange cushion, commonly used for sitting during ice fishing, on the ice next to the hole.

Police ask anyone with information on any person overdue in returning from ice fishing in the area to contact Gander RCMP.

Likewise, anyone who may have gone through the ice and managed to free themselves is asked to report that to police.

Search efforts are currently underway and the investigation is continuing.