Alaska Mom Vanishes in Frozen River Trying to Save Dog on Anniversary Hike

Photo by@Jennifer Richmond/dailymail.co

• Amanda Richmond Rogers, a 45-year-old mother of four, disappeared under the ice of the frozen Eagle River in Alaska while trying to save her dog, Groot.
• The incident occurred on December 23, during a hike on the North Fork Eagle River Trailhead, which was also Amanda and her husband Brian Rogers' 18th wedding anniversary.
• Search and rescue efforts have been challenging due to brutal Arctic weather conditions; they will continue with the use of underwater drones and sonar equipment.

In a tragic turn of events, Amanda Richmond Rogers, a 45-year-old mom of four, vanished beneath the ice of Alaska's frozen Eagle River while attempting to rescue her drowning dog.

The incident unfolded on December 23, when Amanda and her husband, Brian Rogers, were celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary by hiking the North Fork Eagle River Trailhead, just north of Anchorage. Their dog, Groot, an Irish Wolfhound, fell through a hole in the ice, prompting both Brian and then Amanda to enter the freezing water in a desperate rescue attempt.

Brian Rogers, who is also the father of their children Liam (16), Leif Thurmond (25), August (15), and Bodhi (10), recounted the harrowing ordeal, expressing that Amanda's actions were those of a hero who viewed their dog as a family member. Despite the couple's valiant efforts, both Amanda and Groot remain missing.

The search for Amanda, an experienced emergency room nurse, has been hindered by severe Arctic weather conditions, challenging even the skilled search and rescue teams. The efforts are set to resume with advanced technology, including underwater drones and sonar equipment. This distressing event has deeply impacted the family, especially during the holiday season and following the recent loss of Amanda's father. Brian Rogers, who met Amanda while both were working as medics in Texas, has expressed immense gratitude for the community's support during this difficult time. Amanda is remembered for her love of the outdoors, her family, and her dedication to her profession as a nurse and a mother.

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