Watch Mich. Police Officer Ditch Shirt, Gear to Jump in Icy Canal to Save Dog
By Jackie Martin
Source The News Herald, Southgate, Mich.
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Utah Sheriff's Deputy Rescues Man Near Death in Frozen Lake
- "He was at the end of his time," says a Tooele County sheriff's deputy about saving a man who had fallen through icy Stansbury Lake while trying to rescue his dog.
With complete disregard to the freezing cold waters, a Trenton police officer jumped into the canal in Elizabeth Park to save a dog fighting to stay alive after falling through the ice.
According to police, a 911 call came through to the department at about 5:20 p.m. Feb. 10 reporting that the dog was in distress.
Cpl. Seth Bond and Officer Mike Bedsun arrived within minutes and quickly began to devise a plan to safely rescue the dog.
They figured out a strategy, knowing that every minute counted.
According to police, the dog was struggling to stay afloat.
Police said without hesitation, Bedsun took off his uniform shirt to protect the police equipment and lighten his weight.
He jumped into the icy water, breaking through sections of ice, while Bond coordinated efforts from the shallow water.
After what officers described as a tense and physically demanding operation between the two law enforcement officers, the dog was safely pulled to the shore and handed over to his owner.
Deputy Chief Jeff Neese commended both of the officers on their swift actions.
“Their quick thinking, teamwork, and willingness to put themselves in harm’s way embody the very essence of public service,” Neese said. “Thanks to their bravery, a life was saved today.”
Police Chief Mike Hawkins also expressed the pride he has in the officers, saying that isn’t something they routinely train for in terms of rescues.
Trenton police warn residents to pay attention to the thickness of the ice before going out it, and letting dogs play on it, too. It might not be solid if the temperature has been fluctuating. (Photo courtesy of the Trenton Police Department)
The chief believes there is a good reason the murky, frigid waters didn’t cloud Bedsun’s judgement to cast aside part of his uniform and jump right into the channel.
“He is a member of SWAT and he is ready for just about anything,” Hawkins said. “He’s our only police officer on the Downriver Dive Team. This shows you the kind of officers we have and it’s important for people know the character of these officers. They are outstanding.”
The department reminds residents to be cautious around frozen bodies of water, especially during fluctuating winter temperatures.
“If you see a person or animal in distress, call 911 and avoid putting yourself at risk by attempting a rescue,” Neese said. “Through act of service like today’s heroic rescue, the department continues to build trust and ensure the safety of all residents — both human and animal.”
A few police departments, including Woodhaven and Brownstown Township, have publicly congratulated the department on a job well done in the rescue.
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