Overview
- Body-camera footage from Sept. 11 shows Officers Michael Ely and Jacob Leonard forcing entry to a home on the 2000 block of Whitehall Court in Aurora, Illinois.
- Inside the smoke-filled house, the family's Staffordshire terrier, Oakley, guided Ely to his hanging leash, waited to be clipped in, and was led safely outside.
- Police reported that no people were inside during the fire, and no injuries occurred as Oakley was reunited with his family.
- Investigators said the blaze likely started in the attic and was not considered suspicious, and the homeowners were advised to relocate temporarily.
- Since its release, the rescue video has drawn millions of views and widespread praise, including a public commendation from Police Chief Matt Thomas.