Overview
- A 47-year-old man from Isanti, identified by the Aitkin County Sheriff’s Office as Randy Benson, died after entering Gun Lake to try to save a dog on Sunday.
- A 911 caller reported hearing calls for help around 12:30 p.m., and neighbors found an unoccupied boat before searching the water.
- After about 15 minutes of searching the neighbors located Benson submerged, brought him to shore, and performed CPR until first responders arrived.
- Benson was pronounced dead at the scene and the sheriff’s office publicly thanked the neighbors and offered condolences to the family.
- Authorities have not released details about the dog’s condition and described the incident as a tragic accidental drowning that highlights the hazards of attempting water rescues for animals.