Body Cam Captures Heroic Rescue As Officer Jumps Into Bay for Dog

Drone footage and body cam video show the moment an Atlantic City officer chose to jump into the bay to rescue a frightened, injured dog.

by Admin

Nov 14, 2025

An officer’s day is often a series of unknowns. For one Atlantic City police officer, a call for an abandoned dog quickly became a test of will against the cold bay water. It was a moment that showed how a simple dedication to duty can lead to an extraordinary act of compassion.

The Call and the Chase

The call came in on October 15 for an abandoned dog on Murray Avenue. When Officer Matt Schmidt, a humane law enforcement officer, arrived, he found a tan-and-white dog that was visibly limping. Alongside Animal Control Officer Kathleen James, he attempted to safely secure the frightened animal.

The dog, however, was scared. As they tried to use a catch pole, the dog dodged their efforts and took off, the loop from the pole still around its neck. Officer Schmidt got in his vehicle, trying to coax the dog as it ran down the sidewalk. Then, the situation became much more dangerous. "Kat, he went in the water," Schmidt said over the radio as he headed toward the bay.

"This Is Not a Choice"

The dog was struggling, and the current was strong. Body camera footage captured the tense moments on shore. "That's pretty far," someone is heard saying. Officer Schmidt's reply was simple and direct: "I know, but what else am I supposed to do?"

He knew a boat from the Coast Guard or Fire Department wouldn't arrive in time. "So, I just felt like, 'OK, clearly a boat is not going to get here in time, so this is not a choice. I have to go if I want this dog to live,'" Schmidt later explained.

The officer handed his gear to Officer Lauren Downey and, without hesitation, entered the chilly bay. Drone footage from the Atlantic City Fire Department captured the rescue as Schmidt swam an estimated 100 yards to reach the dog. He secured the animal and began the long swim back, a journey that took nearly 15 minutes in the cold water. "I’m like, ‘OK, buddy, just help me. Just swim with me, not away from me. Don’t make this double hard,’" Schmidt recalled.

Safe on Shore

Back on land, Officer Schmidt, barefoot and soaked, navigated the rocky shore to pull the dog to safety in a marshy area. The pup was immediately handed over to Animal Control for care. The dangers of a water rescue are serious, with cold, currents, and distance posing a significant personal risk to any rescuer. Officer Schmidt’s selfless act ensured a positive outcome for the vulnerable animal.

The dog was taken to the Atlantic County Animal Shelter, where he was treated for his limp and is reported to be in good health. In a positive step, the dog's owner has since come forward. Earlier that same day, Officer Schmidt had also rescued a seagull with a broken wing, showing a consistent compassion for all animals.

When asked about his actions, the officer remained humble. "Honestly, I was just trying to do my job. I’m just glad I got to save the dog," Schmidt said. "I certainly wasn’t thinking that way when I was acting. I was just... This dog has to be saved."

A Final Thought

Officer Schmidt's statement that he was "just trying to do my job" speaks volumes. It’s a powerful reminder that for so many officers, the "job" isn't just about law and order; it's about service, compassion, and protecting the vulnerable, whether they have two legs or four. These small acts of kindness and bravery are the moments that build lasting community trust.

For more stories about officers making a difference, you can read more on our stories page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do if I find an abandoned or injured animal?

If you find an animal that appears abandoned, injured, or in immediate danger, it is best to call your local Animal Control or the police non-emergency line. Do not attempt to capture or move a frightened or injured animal yourself, as it may bite. Reporting it allows trained officers to respond safely.

2. Do police officers rescue animals?

Yes, police officers often rescue animals as part of their daily duties. While some departments have specialized humane officers, all officers may respond to service calls involving animals in distress, such as those stuck in traffic, in hot cars, or in dangerous situations like this water rescue.

3. What kind of training do police officers have for animal rescues?

Officers in specialized roles like Humane Law Enforcement receive specific training in animal handling, animal cruelty investigation, and animal welfare laws. Patrol officers may receive basic training in dealing with animals, but the primary focus is always on public safety and coordinating with Animal Control.

4. Why is it dangerous to rescue an animal from water?

Water rescues are extremely dangerous. Factors like cold water temperatures can lead to hypothermia, strong currents can quickly tire out a swimmer, and the animal itself may be panicking, posing a risk of scratching or drowning the rescuer. It is always best to call 911 or professionals.

5. What is the role of Animal Control?

Animal Control officers are typically responsible for enforcing local ordinances related to animals. This includes handling stray animals, responding to bite reports, investigating nuisance complaints, and helping to manage wildlife. They work closely with police to ensure animal and public safety.

6. How do police and Animal Control work together?

Police and Animal Control often work as partners. Police may be called first to a scene to ensure it is safe before Animal Control arrives. For animal-related calls, like this one, they often respond together to combine police authority and resources with the specialized animal handling equipment and expertise of an Animal Control Officer.