Michigan State Police Officer And Dog Team Up To Save Man From Icy Lake

One man's dog is not only his best friend, but the reason he's alive. According to a release from the Michigan State Police, a heartwarming tale unfolded on Thursday, January 18, 2024. At 11:45 a.m., the tranquility of Arbutus Lake in East Bay Township was disrupted by a chilling incident.

Picture this: a 65-year-old Traverse City man found himself in a precarious situation, having fallen through the unforgiving ice. Panic ensued on the shore as bystanders witnessed the chilling plunge and dialed 911, calling for help.

But fear not! On the scene was our four-legged hero, Ruby, the canine companion of the man was spotted by Michigan State Police officer Kammeron Bennetts. MCO Bennetts, equipped with a rescue disc and a heart full of determination, rushed to the rescue.

The icy terrain posed a challenge for MCO Bennetts to reach the stranded man. A brilliant idea struck him – why not recruit the assistance of the man's dog, Ruby? So he asked the man to send Ruby over.

Ruby, with a wagging tail and a sense of duty, dashed towards MCO Bennetts. The officer swiftly attached the rescue disc to Ruby's collar, turning her into a canine hero ready for action. The man then called Ruby back to him, hoping his dog would be able to save the day. With the rescue disc secured, Ruby made her way back to her owner, ready to play her part in this icy drama.

MCO Bennetts instructed the man to grab on to the disc from Ruby and to start kicking his legs. The scene unfolded like a winter blockbuster as a firefighter from the Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department joined forces. Together, they pulled the man from the freezing waters to safety.

The courageous trio successfully executed an ice rescue that warmed the hearts of everyone present. The man, who had endured approximately 16 minutes in the frigid water, was swiftly transported by ambulance to Munson Medical Center for treatment. Miraculously, he was later released, thanks to the quick thinking of MCO Bennetts and the heroics of Ruby.