UPDATE - Woodville Fisherman Helps Rescue Dog After Crash on Dam B Bridge

Photos courtesy of Beech Grove VFD.

UPDATE:

New information released by Beech Grove VFD confirms that several agencies responded to the scene, including Burkeville Fire Department, Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department, Jasper Fire Department, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Allegiance EMS, and Texas Department of Public Safety. Burkeville Fire Chief Charles Duckworth and Tri-Community firefighter Brent Scoggins both entered the water to try and rescue the poodle before it was ultimately secured by nearby fisherman Jack Thompson of Woodville using a scoop net.

The dog was rescued unharmed. Jasper Exxon Towing & Recovery later removed the vehicle from the bridge.

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Original Article:

At approximately 10:43 a.m. on this rainy Friday morning, Beech Grove Volunteer Fire Department and first responders were dispatched to a one-vehicle accident on Highway 190 West at the Dam B bridge.

According to Beech Grove Fire Chief James Gunter, the female driver—whose name has not been released—struck the concrete guardrail, resulting in a single-vehicle crash. She sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a Beaumont-area hospital for treatment.

Also in the vehicle was a 2-pound poodle who, following the crash, made a dramatic leap into the lake. Chief Gunter described it as a “swan dive.” Several emergency responders jumped in to attempt a rescue, but the tiny swimmer kept evading them.

Fortunately, a Good Samaritan fisherman—Jack Thompson of Woodville—noticed the responders and stepped in to help. From his boat, Thompson was able to assist in safely rescuing the dog. The pup was uninjured, though understandably shaken and soaking wet.

The scene has since been cleared. Big thanks to all the emergency crews and to Mr. Thompson for going above and beyond to help save the day!