Hero Dog Leads Police to Missing 3-Year-Old: “Lassie Found Him”

What’s that, boy? Timmy’s trapped in a car?

A four-legged hero helped Kentucky police rescue a missing toddler after guiding officers straight to the frightened child, according to newly released bodycam footage.

Louisville Metro Police Officer Josh Thompson and fellow officers were searching for a missing 3-year-old boy on January 7 when a collie mix suddenly appeared and began barking insistently at them. The dog, which Thompson did not recognize despite regularly patrolling the area, seemed determined to get their attention.

“I was a little leery at first,” Thompson admitted, unsure of the unfamiliar dog. But the collie continued barking directly at the officers, as if trying to communicate something urgent.

Finally, Thompson decided to play along.

“Hey, let’s go find this kid,” he told the dog.

Almost immediately, the collie took off running into a nearby backyard. Thompson followed, thinking the child might be there.

While searching the yard, the dog returned and led officers toward a garage area where a car was parked. When police peered inside the vehicle, they discovered the missing boy locked in the front passenger seat.

Thompson said he instantly switched into “dad mode,” calmly coaching the scared child through the door.

“He hit the door latch, and I gave him the yank motion. He pulled, and I quickly opened the door,” Thompson recalled. “He jumped out of the car, wrapped his arms around my neck in a bear hug, and wouldn’t let go.”

The boy, though shaken, was unharmed and soon reunited with his family.

As officers celebrated the successful rescue, they showered the heroic dog with pets and praise.

“Lassie found him!” one officer exclaimed.

“I don’t know where that dog came from, but it was a blessing from God that day,” Thompson said.

Local resident Sean Calloway later identified the collie as a familiar and friendly presence in the Okolona neighborhood, often seen roaming the streets when the weather is nice.

“He’s always out here like this, but he’s a good dog,” Calloway told WLKY, affectionately introducing the pup.

“You’re a hero,” he added, petting the now-famous “Louisville Lassie.” 🐾