Rescue team saves dog, minor from the water at Spring Valley Park

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — A water rescue team saved a minor and his dog from the water at Spring Valley Park on Saturday.

Officials with the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety said the boy swam out in the water to rescue his dog, who he thought was struggling to stay afloat in the lake. When officers arrived at about 5:05 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, they found the boy nearly 100 yards from shore.

A bystander attempted to save the boy, but became exhausted and struggled to return to shore, police said.

Sgt. Jeff Deblecourt, a veteran police officer who is trained in water rescue, entered the water and was able to support both the bystander and boy until additional officers helped. Police said the officers worked together to bring the dog, boy and bystander back to shore.

All three were treated at the scene by emergency medical personnel.

Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety reminds swimmers to exercise caution when swimming in large bodies of water, swim with a buddy, remain close to shore, and continuously evaluate your level of exhaustion while swimming in deep waters.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety at 488-8911, Silent Observer at 343-2100 or report online at www.kalamazoosilentobserver.com.