When a 4-year-old boy disappeared in the dense forest of New Jersey, the state police immediately launched a search.
But when the boy was finally found, the officers were in for a surprise.
The woods outside Buena Vista Township in New Jersey are not a place for a four-year-old to spend the night alone, especially given the dense and dangerous terrain.
So it’s no surprise that the parents of this young kid were scared when they couldn’t find him in the early hours of March 28, 2023.
When the New Jersey state police arrived at the house, they discovered that the child had left with his black Labrador. After searching for a while, the rescue crew received information from a neighbor who had heard calls for aid in the woods, heightening the urgency.
An hour of stress passed before the cops arrived and the boy’s mother made an amazing discovery. The 4-year-old boy and his dog emerged from the forest.
“We are thankful to report that due to the quick response of the troopers and his mother, the terrified child was safely located and in good health,” New Jersey State Police wrote.
Besides the relief of finding the child safe and sound, the most heartwarming aspect of this story was that the family dog never strayed from the boy’s side.
After posting the video online, many praised the black Labrador.
“This beautiful dog protected him and stayed by his side,” one commenter said.
“Give this dog an award!” another added.
“Great dog!” a third wrote.
Troopers Rescue Missing Child in the Woods
Last night, troopers from Buena Vista Station responded to the report of a missing child in Buena Vista Twp., Atlantic County.
A 4-year-old boy and his black Labrador had wandered away from his house.
Check out the rescue. pic.twitter.com/wUMrWYzuYQ
— NJSP – New Jersey State Police (@NJSP) March 30, 2023