PINEDALE, Wyo. — A driver and his two dogs were pulled out of frigid waters in the Green River after officials received reports of a truck partially submerged in the icy water.

On Dec 27, at approximately 10 p.m. the call came into Sublette County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) of a truck in the Green River near Reardon Draw just South of Big Piney.

SCSO Deputies, EMS, and Sublette County Unified Fire immediately responded. With reports of the vehicle partially submerged in the icy water with the driver still in it, TipTop Search and Rescue (TTSAR) members were paged to respond, as well.

TipTop volunteers certified and trained in both Ice rescue and Swiftwater rescue responded with their gear. Prior to the arrival of the Swiftwater team, SCSO Deputies and Sublette County Unified Fire safely assisted the driver out of the vehicle utilizing a ladder that extended from the ice built up next to the bank to the bed of the truck.

TTSAR members were then tasked with the rescue of two dogs still in the cab. After several attempts, TTSAR members were able to bring both dogs to safety without harm. TTSAR members then focused their attention on the removal of the truck. It took several attempts to attach a winch to the frame which was completely underwater and ultimately a second tow truck was called to the scene to help pull the truck out of the river.

Working in zero-degree temperatures with ice and moving water is not something TTSAR does often, but due to their training and teamwork, the dedicated volunteers of TTSAR were able to accomplish the mission safely on Christmas weekend. The driver was taken to the Pinedale Medical Clinic to be evaluated.