Goose hunter, 23, dies making an attempt to avoid wasting his canine after it fell by way of ice | EUROtoday

A 23-year-old goose hunter was discovered lifeless in Illinois after he fell by way of the ice of a frozen pond whereas making an attempt to avoid wasting his canine.

The New Baden Fire Department responded to a report {that a} man fell by way of the ice of a frozen pond shortly after 3 p.m. Monday. Several items have been dispatched to the realm, together with a dive workforce from the close by Swansea Fire Department.

After a number of hours, the search transitioned from a rescue to a restoration mission, and the person’s physique was recovered the subsequent day, in response to native outlet KSDK. He has since been recognized as 23-year-old Luke Kitterman.

The incident stemmed from a looking accident, in response to Peyton Matthews of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police. Kitterman was with a number of different younger males on a goose looking journey when his canine fell by way of the ice.

“They were in the act of hunting. They were goose hunting. The dog that retrieves the geese had gone out onto the ice and had fallen through while trying to retrieve the geese,” Matthews advised KSDK.

“At that point in time, the owner of the dog became panicked that the dog might be in trouble, and then that’s when he went out onto the ice and attempted to rescue his dog,” she added.

Kitterman’s pals labored to avoid wasting him, however he rapidly fell underneath.

“His friends did try to get out there to help him out,” Matthews stated. “They were able to pull the dog out of the water and into a canoe, just unfortunately lost sight of their friend.”

Several of Kitterman’s pals remained on the scene as first responders looked for him, KSDK studies. The property homeowners additionally opened up a warming heart for first responders and his pals because the search stretched on.

Kitterman lived in New Memphis, Illinois, and was an “avid outdoorsman, according to an obituary reviewed by the Belleville News-Democrat.

“He would have rather been outside than anywhere else. He was an experienced hunter and fisherman, as well as a conservationist and member of Ducks Unlimited,” the obituary reads.

“He took great care to ensure that the forests, rivers and lakes would be protected for future hunters and fishermen to enjoy,” the obituary continues. “Luke also loved boating and hanging out and drinking beer with family and friends.”