Firefighter Swims Into Icy Pond to Save Stranded Dog

Captain Steve Doyle didn't let his Valentine's Day wedding plans stop him from diving into an icy Illinois pond to save a dog's life.

The Columbia Fire Department firefighter swam 20 yards through freezing water Friday morning to reach a stranded pit bull in Cahokia Heights. The dog was losing energy fast and starting to slip under the surface.

Doyle quickly pulled on his ice rescue suit and skipped the usual safety step of removing excess air because every second counted. Fellow firefighters secured a rope to him and he pushed off toward the terrified animal.

"I knew that I didn't have very much time so I just took off for the dog," Doyle said. The 44-year-old captain completed his first-ever rescue without getting bitten, though he joked about having to explain dog bite injuries to his fiancée Jennifer Welker at their Saturday ceremony.

The team pulled both rescuer and dog safely back to shore. Gateway Pet Guardians in East St. Louis took in the exhausted pup, naming him Gill.

"Poor thing was trapped and terrified and started freezing," the shelter shared on Facebook. Executive Director Alisha Vianello confirmed Gill is doing well and can go to a foster home immediately while completing his required week-long stray hold.

Sunny's Take

This story captures something beautiful about everyday heroes. Doyle didn't hesitate to help a vulnerable creature, even with his own big day just hours away. His quick thinking and the Columbia Fire Department's training turned a potential tragedy into a heartwarming rescue.

The shelter is accepting foster applications for Gill at 618-687-8007. Meanwhile, Doyle has an important reminder for everyone: stay off the ice and call firefighters if someone needs help.

One firefighter's courage gave a scared dog a second chance at finding a forever home.