CONTACT:
Liza Poinier: 603-271-3211
June 29, 2012

Farmington, N.H., Toddler Found Safe in Woods

NEWS MEDIA: Click to download a hi-res image

CO Mark Hensel and his conservation canine partner, Sig

CONCORD, N.H. – A search late last night (Thursday, June 28, 2012) ended happily, with a reunion for the family of Liam Davis, age 19 months, of Farmington, N.H. After being put to bed in the family tent, Liam had woken up, unzipped the door of the tent and wandered about a quarter-mile downstream from his family’s campsite in the woods; he was located by N.H. Fish and Game conservation canine “Sig” at about 11:30 p.m.

According to Fish and Game Lt. Jim Goss, local police received a report of the missing toddler at about 8:00 p.m. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and search teams from around the region responded – Fish and Game, State Police personnel and the State Police helicopter, local police departments, local fire departments, plus dozens of volunteers, about 75 searchers total, including K-9 units.

Conservation Officer Mark Hensel and his K-9 partner Sig found Liam about 200 yards from the tent, asleep at the base of a tree. Hensel lifted the sleeping child and walked him out to be reunited with his mother. Liam appeared to be in good condition, but he was transported to Frisbie Hospital as a precaution.

“Mark and Sig did an amazing job,” Lt. Goss said. “We’re glad it all turned out well.”

Canines play a crucial role in Conservation Law Enforcement. Dogs are trained in tracking; evidence, fish and wildlife detection; obedience and agility. They work daily with their assigned Conservation Officer, patrolling and assisting in search and rescue. Fish and Game recently brought another canine, Ruby, into the program. She is in training.

A dedicated account has been set up at the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of N.H. for the sole support of Fish and Game's conservation canines; if you would like to help, visit www.nhwildlifefoundation.org or call 603-545-4873.

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