Eastham, Massachusetts – A heartbreaking Valentine’s Day outing turned deadly for a longtime Cape Cod couple when thin ice on Bee’s River claimed their lives during a routine dog walk. Jerry Boucher, 72, and his wife Kit Boucher, 71, both Eastham residents for nearly two decades, were known for their devotion to their black Labrador retriever, Casey. The pair, high school sweethearts who had shared more than 50 years of marriage, frequently strolled along the scenic shores near First Encounter Beach.

On the morning of February 14, 2026, the Bouchers set out as usual with Casey. What began as a peaceful winter walk ended in disaster when the fragile ice surface cracked beneath them. Reports indicate the dog somehow scrambled to safety, emerging drenched and visibly agitated. Casey wandered into the nearby First Encounter Beach parking lot, wet and in clear distress, prompting a concerned bystander to alert authorities around 9:07 a.m.

Eastham police officers responded swiftly. Upon arrival, they encountered the distressed animal and immediately heard cries for help echoing from the river. Rushing to the scene, the first officer spotted Kit in the frigid water, struggling after falling through. In a valiant but perilous rescue attempt, both responding officers ventured onto the unstable ice, only for it to give way under their weight as well. Miraculously, they managed to pull themselves back to solid ground and were transported to Cape Cod Hospital for evaluation, later released.

Firefighters and the Barnstable County Technical Rescue and Dive Team arrived to launch a full operation. Divers located Kit’s body submerged under the ice approximately 30 feet from shore by late morning; she was pronounced deceased at the scene due to drowning in the icy conditions. Investigations at the site strongly suggest Jerry had also plunged through earlier, likely while trying to assist or during the initial mishap. Extensive searches involving dive teams, drones, and repeated checks continued through the weekend but were hampered by dangerous ice and poor visibility. As of the latest updates, Jerry remains missing, with authorities vowing to resume efforts when conditions improve.

The local community is reeling from the loss. Neighbors describe the Bouchers as “the sweetest, kindest people,” always volunteering and radiating warmth. One friend recounted how Jerry’s love for Casey drove daily walks, rain or shine—perhaps a fateful habit that led to the tragedy. Casey, the loyal companion, survived and is now in the care of family, a poignant reminder of the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners.

This incident serves as a stark warning about the dangers of winter ice on Cape Cod’s coastal waters. Officials urge residents and visitors to avoid walking on frozen surfaces, keep pets leashed near risky areas, and heed weather advisories. In the wake of this sorrowful event, tributes continue to pour in for a couple whose love and kindness touched so many lives.