Cape Coral, FL – A cat was rescued from the water in Southwest Florida after falling from the Cape Coral Bridge during an attempt by a passing driver to help the animal.
The incident happened Monday morning after a motorist noticed the cat along the side of the Cape Coral Bridge, according to the Cape Coral Fire Department.
The driver stopped and tried to move the cat away from danger. During the effort, the animal fell from the bridge and landed in the river below.
After entering the water, the cat swam toward the first bridge piling and managed to hold onto the structure while emergency crews responded.
Firefighters from the Cape Coral Fire Department arrived at the scene along with a Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputy and volunteers with the Cape Coral Police Department.
Fire department personnel trained in water rescue entered the river and made their way toward the stranded cat. Responders were able to reach the animal, secure it and bring it safely back to land.
Photos released by officials showed firefighters holding the cat following the rescue.
The animal was later transferred to Lee County Domestic Animal Services, where officials said it could receive medical care if needed.
Authorities did not provide additional details about how the cat originally reached the bridge or whether an owner had been located.
No injuries to firefighters, law enforcement officers or members of the public were reported during the rescue.
Cape Coral officials said emergency services can be contacted when an animal is in a situation that may also place people in danger. Non-emergency dispatch can be used for animal rescues that do not involve an immediate threat to public safety.