Bobcat falls through ice

Rescue crews were unable to bring the bobcat out of the water and an underwater rescue team was called in Friday evening for assistance.

The operator of a bobcat that fell through ice near Prince Albert has drowned.

RCMP said James Dietrich was using the machine and fell through ice at about 2:00 p.m. Friday afternoon.

After the tractor went through the ice, Dietrich was then trapped inside. Rescue crews tried to crawl into the water to see if they could reach the door of the bobcat, but they were unsuccessful. PA Auto arrived with a tow truck and were able to move the tractor, however, crews were still unable to get it out of the water.

An under water rescue team was deployed to the scene. However, before the under water team arrived, PA auto returedn with two large semi tow trucks and were able to retrive the bobcat.

Police have not said how old Dietrich was.