Atlantic City officer jumps into chilly bay waters to save injured dog

An injured pit bull is safe after a police officer in Atlantic City, New Jersey, bravely jumped into chilly bay waters to rescue him.

According to the Atlantic City Police Department, the incident happened on October 15, 2025, around 12:30 p.m.

Police said Atlantic City Police Officer Matt Schmidt had responded to a call regarding a tan and white male pit bull-type dog that was reportedly abandoned in a vacant lot near the Venice Park neighborhood of Atlantic City.

When Schmidt arrived at the scene, police said he was met by Officer Lauren Downey, who informed Schmidt that the dog was limping and had a concerning amount of redness on his skin.

At that time, police said animal control was contacted and arrived to capture the injured dog, but he proved difficult to catch. Animal control was able to get the dog into an animal catch pole, but he escaped through a hole in the fence while the pole was still around his neck.

Police said Schmidt and Animal Control were able to corner the dog at a lot near the bay, but he jumped into the bay and swam away from shore. At that time, Schmidt handed his weapon and uniform to Officer Downey and plunged into the cold water to attempt to rescue the dog.

Atlantic City Police Department

Atlantic City Police Department

After several minutes, police said Schmidt used another animal catch pole to secure the dog and pull him safely to shore.

Animal Control immediately took possession of the dog and transported him safely to the Atlantic County Animal Shelter, where he was treated for his limp.

Atlantic City Police Department

Atlantic City Police Department

Police said the dog is now in good health.