Tragic Hero: Young Man Dies Saving Dog from Icy Pond in Illinois
A heroic young man has been found dead after disappearing beneath the ice while desperately trying to save his beloved dog during a hunting trip in Illinois. Luke Kitterman, 23, from New Memphis, lost his life in a tragic incident that unfolded on Monday afternoon in Clinton County.
The Fatal Rescue Attempt
Kitterman was hunting with friends and his dog, Bourbon, when the canine fell through the ice around 3pm while attempting to retrieve a downed bird. Witness reports, as detailed by WTSP, indicate that Kitterman immediately leapt onto the ice to save his dog, belly-crawling across to pull the animal out. However, he fell into the water himself during the attempt.
Shocked bystanders observed the dog fall back into the water. Kitterman was once again able to rescue his beloved pet, but he quickly disappeared under the icy surface and never resurfaced. A friend tried to reach Kitterman but could not safely cross the ice, according to Peyton Matthews of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police.
Search and Recovery Efforts
Emergency crews responded immediately, with a dive team spending hours in the freezing water searching for Kitterman. The mission eventually switched from rescue to recovery and was paused around 9pm. It resumed on Tuesday, requiring crews to drill a hole through the three-inch ice to allow divers access to the pond.
Kitterman's friends returned to the scene on Tuesday to support the recovery efforts. Hours later, his body was successfully recovered from the pond, marking a sombre end to the search.
Remembering Luke Kitterman
In his obituary, Kitterman's family described him as an avid outdoorsman who cherished nature. He loved fishing, hunting, and was a dedicated conservationist and member of Ducks Unlimited. The obituary noted, 'He took great care to ensure that the forests, rivers, and lakes would be protected for future hunters and fishermen to enjoy.'
It added, 'Luke also loved boating, and hanging out, and drinking beer with family and friends. Even though his life was cut short, Luke lived life to the fullest and will be missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.' He is survived by his parents, a brother, and other relatives.
