Body of Missing Boater Recovered in NH River

Jacques Savoie of Hudson, NH died while trying to rescue his dog

Emergency crews have recovered the body of a boater who New Hampshire authorities believe drowned in the Pemigewasset River over the weekend while trying to rescue one of his dogs.

The New Hampshire State Police-Marine Patrol said the body of Jacques C. Savoie, 54, of Hudson, was found early Monday in 10 feet of water after a search was called off Sunday night.

Authorities said Savoie and his wife Debbie were on the river in a small boat when one of their four dogs jumped overboard. Savoie dove into the water to retrieve the dog.

Sgt. Tom Dakai with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department said Debbie Savoie tried to throw her husband a life jacket, but that he went underwater and never came up.

"We don't have any evidence leading us to foul play," Dakai said. "It's looking just like it's a terrible accident."

Savoie was seen with the dog on his chest before he slipped below the surface.

"Well you don't think, you just react," said Joe Pereira, who was fishing on the river Monday. "I would go in in a second. I would do anything for my dog."

Other people enjoying the river Monday said they too would have risked their lives for their best friend.

"I would've done the same thing, a dog is part of the family," said Rich Stegan of Grafton, New Hampshire.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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