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Bodycam Shows Aurora Dog Leading Officer to Leash During House Fire Rescue

Public release of the video drew broad praise.

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.