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Officer Drowns Trying to Save Canines in Distress
Officer Down Memorial Page, Inc.
June 11, 2010
Deputy Eddie Wotipka drowned after entering a canal in an attempt to rescue a dog that had fallen into the water.
At approximately 11:15 pm, as Deputy Wotipka arrived home at the end of his shift, several several neighbors notified him that a group of dogs were possibly in distress near the canal.
When he arrived at the canal his own dog fell into the water. Deputy Wotipka, who was still in uniform, jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue the dog. It is believed that a swift undercurrent caused him to go beneath the surface. He resurfaced once before going under the water again.
A sheriff’s department dive team recovered his body the following morning.
Deputy Wotipka had served with the agency for 17 years. He is survived by his wife and two adult children.
Anonymous
about 4 years ago
Rest in Peace.God Bless.
HCSO45N12
about 4 years ago
2 Comments
RIP Brother
disco29
about 4 years ago
112 Comments
I would of done the same thing for my dog as well and probably even done it for another dog as well. This brave officer was a great person. RIP brother
swatness123
about 4 years ago
112 Comments
This is tragic...RIP Deputy Wtipka...My prayers for your family and friends. Again this very very tragic.
I like dogs but I am not risking my life for an animal. Human yes, Dog no.
BJenkins
about 4 years ago
292 Comments
RIP....ours prays go out to your family
medic4u2
about 4 years ago
4 Comments
RIP and God Bless you. Need more just like you.
EOD300
about 4 years ago
2278 Comments
Rest In Peace, Brother...
jakester
about 4 years ago
1148 Comments
IN HONORE CASORUM
Gone, but not forgotten
MIKIESPLACE
about 4 years ago
1370 Comments
How tragic. I read this as my 14 year old golden retriever rests at my foot. I would have immediately jumped into any situation to rescue my dog. what is it they say about no greater love have a man who lays down his life for another. god bless you sir.
Arizona_Smokey
about 4 years ago
324 Comments
How absolutely tragic and sad. To lose a brother officer this way (and his beloved dog) is horrible. RIP, brother.
7yt43tquma
about 4 years ago
7202 Comments
Tragic! My prayers for you and your loved ones! RIP Offr. Wotipka! An new angel in Heaven........
SuzanneNGa
about 4 years ago
16562 Comments
R.I.P. Officer Wotipka.
aussie4
about 4 years ago
5328 Comments
When you give your life for another, it is to me the highest calling there is, being a Retired Marine I have seen it many times. Thank you for all you have done and for your efforts to give the ultimate sacrifice Mr. Wotipka and may God Bless you and your family.
Inxorte
about 4 years ago
734 Comments
RIPB
hdl28711
about 4 years ago
88 Comments
Sad. A tribute to how dedicated LEOs can be ,when it comes to helping others - even animals.