Brothers Who Saved Man, Dog From Frozen Lake Get Carnegie Medal

FAIRFIELD, CT — Two brothers have received the Carnegie Medal, North America’s highest honor for civilian heroism, after rescuing a man and his dog from the icy waters of Lake Mohegan.

Jonathan Goldfarb, a physical therapist from Fairfield, and Matthew Goldfarb, a teacher from Howell, New Jersey, were out walking with family the afternoon of Dec. 22, 2019, when they heard cries for help, and found a man and his dog struggling to stay above water about 100 feet from shore, according to Fairfield police.

“Jonathan and Matthew both entered the water without hesitation, knowing their own safety and lives were at risk,” police said in a news release.

The brothers moved ice from their path as they swam, according to a news release from the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission. Jonathan grasped the man and Matthew grasped the dog, and they returned to shore.

The man, who had been in the lake’s freezing water about 10 minutes, showed signs of severe hypothermia, but was taken to a hospital and recovered, police said. The brothers also recovered after receiving treatment at a hospital. The dog survived the accident in good health, Lt. Antonio Granata confirmed.

The incident began when the dog ran out onto the ice and fell into the water. The man tried to rescue the animal, but had a hard time getting back to shore due to the extreme cold. His girlfriend yelled for help and entered the water herself in an attempt to assist.

“The actions of both Jonathan and Matthew Goldfarb represent an outstanding act of heroism,” police said. “As a result, the Fairfield Police Department nominated them for the Carnegie Medal, which is given throughout the U.S. and Canada to those who enter mortal danger while saving or attempting to save the lives of others.”

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission announced its 18 honorees March 24. Each of those recognized will receive a financial grant.