In a heartbreaking turn of events during a celebratory hike in Anchorage, 45-year-old Amanda Richmond Rogers is presumed dead after attempting to rescue her dog, Groot, from the icy waters of the Eagle River. The incident occurred on Saturday as Amanda and her husband, Brian, marked their 18th wedding anniversary.
Groot, an Irish Wolfhound, found himself in peril when he broke through the ice while trying to drink from the river. Without hesitation, Amanda, an ER nurse, and Brian sprang into action to save their beloved pet. Brian recalls witnessing Amanda bravely jumping into the frigid water to rescue Groot. Tragically, Brian last saw Amanda swimming downstream under the ice.
The search for Amanda and Groot involves multiple rescue teams, including Alaska State Troopers, the state's Dive Search, Rescue, and Recovery Team, the Solstice Search, and the Alaska Wildlife Troopers. The operation faced a temporary setback when equipment froze up, but resumed with the deployment of underwater drones, specialist rescue dogs, and sonar equipment.
The community is gripped by the devastating loss of a mother of four who, in a moment of selflessness, risked her life to save her cherished pet. As the search continues, the collective hope remains for closure and recovery for the family mourning the loss of Amanda and the faithful companion she sought to rescue.
