Nico Hischier’s summer break in Switzerland turned into something far more dramatic than a quiet homecoming.
The New Jersey Devils captain helped rescue a family caught in trouble on the Aare River in Bern, where a small rubber boat carrying two adults and two children drifted toward a hazardous dam. Strong currents pushed the boat into dangerous water, and the family could not get free on their own.
Hischier was visiting family in Switzerland when he spotted the situation and stepped in alongside local police. Working with responders, he helped secure the boat and used a throw bag to guide the family back to safety. First responders then led all four people to the Engehalde weir footbridge.
Officials said everyone came through the frightening episode unharmed. Eyewitnesses described Hischier’s involvement as heroic and praised how quickly everyone worked together.
“In this situation, everyone is grateful for support and we were all relieved that no one was hurt in the end,” Hischier told 20 Minuten.
He also brushed aside any big talk about his own role, keeping the focus on the team effort and the relief that nobody was injured.
The Devils were quick to celebrate the moment on social media, writing: “Reason number 1,113 why we’re damn proud Nico Hischier is a New Jersey Devil,”
The rescue comes shortly after Hischier signed a significant long-term contract extension with New Jersey that keeps him with the team through the 2031-32 season. The 27-year-old is also set to move up the Devils’ all-time scoring lists when he returns.
For now, though, his off-ice actions in Switzerland have added another layer to his reputation - not just as a top center, but as a captain willing to step up when it matters. Summer gives NHL players a chance to recharge at home, and the Aare River incident was a reminder that those quiet months can still bring sudden danger, especially near weirs and dams where currents can turn powerful.
Hischier will head back to Devils duties with renewed focus after the break, needing only a few more goals to reach notable franchise milestones. And after this rescue, his leadership has a story that reaches well beyond the rink.
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