Bystanders Rescue Dog Stranded on Ice Covered River After Authorities Arrive at Scene and Decide to Do Nothing

Two good samaritans sprung into action and rescued a dog stranded in the middle of an icy Delaware River Sunday after authorities arrived at the scene and opted not to do anything.

According to WPVI-TV, Trenton fire and police were called to the scene after concerned individuals notified them that a dog was stuck on the ice-covered river, but ultimately decided to do nothing, fearing for their own personal safety.

"Duke" the dog was rescued by two good samaritans Sunday from an icy river after authorities opted not to attempt to save him. (Image source: Screen grab via WPVI-TV)

However, Russ Miller and Ciro Silvestri couldn't stand by and watch the dog suffer in the freezing conditions.

"I didn't think. I just went out there and got him. We had the canoe in case anything happens," Miller said.

[sharequote align="center"]"I didn't think. I just went out there and got him."[/sharequote]

Miller was called in by animal control and Silvestri rushed to the scene after being notified of the situation by a relative.

"She said that fire department isn't really wanting to do anything about it, they don't want to endanger themselves. If they are not going to do something, I will," Silvestri told WPVI-TV, who added, "I love animals, that's it."

Employing a kayak and moving slowly on the icy river, the two eventually made their way to "Duke."

"He was scared, he was sitting still. He wasn't moving for us so we had to just pick him up and put him on the canoe and go," Silvestri said.

"Duke" the dog was rescued by two good samaritans Sunday from an icy river after authorities opted not to attempt to save him. (Image source: Screen grab via WPVI-TV)

Shortly after the incident, the dog's owner arrived at the scene in tears, saying "Duke" had escaped her backyard. Her relative saw the dramatic rescue unfold on local television.

"We had been missing our dog for the last three days. I went to every animal shelter and everything looking for him. I was just about to put out flyers and then I got the call," Keonna Wilson told WPVI-TV.

"I just want to thank whoever did it. I thank you so much for risking your life for the safety of my dog and that he is okay and that the men are OK," she added.

"Duke" appears to be fine and not harmed by the incident, according to Ewing Animal Shelter officials.

Officials had reportedly told bystanders not to take action, as they could put themselves and others at risk.

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