FDNY Marine unit rescues dog thrown off bridge into Harlem River
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- An FDNY Marine unit rescued a 2-year-old pit bull mix that authorities say was thrown off a bridge and into the Harlem River Tuesday.
Officials say Marine 4 responded to a report of a dog in distress in the water.
Upon arrival, Marine 4, led by Lieutenant Salvatore Sodano, saw a civilian clinging to the dog from shore, attempting to keep it afloat.
Members from Marine 4 were able to bring the dog on board the vessel and take him to shore, where he could receive the necessary care.
The 62-pound pooch was doing the doggie paddle when he was scooped up.
"Without the quick response from both the civilian and FDNY members, the outcome for this animal could have been very different," the department said.
The NYPD's Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad, along with the ASPCA, is now investigating into how the dog ended up in the river.
"Today, me and the FDNY rescued a dog that was thrown into the Harlem River," that civilian posted on social medial. "I hope the person or person's responsible for this heinous crime gets what's coming to them."
Animal Care Centers is caring for the dog, which has been named "Aquaman," and some of the hero firefighters are chomping at the bit to adopt the loveable pooch.
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