Dog Found Dead On The Ice In Willimantic River: Police

WINDHAM, CT — A dog was found dead on the ice in the Willimantic River Friday, police said.

The Windham Animal Control and Willimantic Police Department are investigating the incident, officials said.

Animal control was notified after a report that a small dog was seen lying motionless on the ice near the center of the river, feet from the waterfall, police said.

Responding personnel confirmed the dog was already deceased and was located on unstable ice alongside what appeared to be a small cardboard box, police said.

Due to the significant safety risks posed by the deteriorating ice conditions, police officers and firefighters responded to coordinate a safe recovery effort, police said. While plans were developing, the ice broke free and the dog was carried downstream by the current, police said.

An investigation has been initiated, police said.

"At this time, it is not known how the dog came to be in the river or whether its death was due to natural causes or other circumstances. We are seeking amongst other things, to determine who may have been involved and when the dog entered the water," police said.

Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the Willimantic Police Department at 860-465-3135.