Alaska Search Efforts Reignite for Woman Lost Rescuing Dog in Frozen River

On Tuesday, search and rescue crews started looking for Amanda Richmond again.Photo byKTUU

The search resumed in Alaska for Amanda Richmond, a 45-year-old resident of Eagle River who went missing after attempting to rescue her dog that had fallen through the ice into the frozen Eagle River. Identified by the Alaska State Troopers, Richmond's disappearance occurred Saturday afternoon while trying to save the beloved family pet, Groot, from an open area of water. The efforts involved the Alaska Dive Search, Rescue, and Recovery Team, the Solstice Search and Rescue K9 Team, and Alaska Wildlife Troopers, who recommenced the search on Tuesday.

According to her husband, Brian Rogers, Groot was more than just a pet; he was a cherished family member. Rogers clarified that Richmond didn't risk her life for 'just a dog'; she was perceived as a hero by him and their four children. The troopers confirmed that the dog has yet to be recovered.

Recounting the incident, Rogers mentioned that Groot was drinking from a gap in the ice when it fell in. Seeing a paw beneath the ice, he entered the water to rescue the dog. Richmond, seeing her husband in the water, also went in, attempting to save their pet. Rogers emphasized that their instinct to save their dog propelled them into action without hesitation. He expressed that Amanda's love for their dogs equaled her affection for their children, defining their pets as integral members of their family.

A nurse and a mother to four children, Richmond had positively impacted the lives of many, as mentioned by Rogers in a statement to KTUU. Despite efforts, Amanda Richmond's family and search teams continued their endeavours to find her, mourning the loss of a compassionate individual who bravely risked her life to protect a beloved member of their family.