Midtown Police District Blog – 05/06/2025
This past Sunday morning, May 4th, Midtown saw something pretty special – not a crime, not a complaint, but a collaboration. It started on University Avenue with a mother duck and her dozen or so ducklings, and it turned into a heartwarming rescue that brought together concerned residents, police officers, and an incredible Animal Services Officer.
Residents Elizabeth and Pat were out on Sunday morning when they spotted the feathered family attempting to cross University Avenue. Unfortunately, traffic was starting to pick up, and what could have been a peaceful crossing quickly turned into a near-disaster. The situation was described as, "a mass smashing of ducks was about to occur." Thankfully, Elizabeth and Pat were quick to act and were able to halt traffic just in time.
But the drama wasn't over.
In the panic, most of the ducklings fell through a sewer grate at the side of the street. Like any good citizens in distress, Elizabeth and Pat did what we all would do--they called the police.
What followed was an unusual but inspiring joint effort. Midtown officers arrived on the scene and worked alongside Elizabeth, Pat, and some very concerned duck siblings to gather the mother duck and the two ducklings that hadn't fallen. With mom pacing anxiously nearby, Officers knew they needed backup. Enter ACO Julie Bigley.
ACO Bigley responded swiftly and heroically. Over the course of a long and challenging effort, she coordinated the delicate rescue of every single duckling from the sewer. "Communicative, calm, and creative" under pressure, Julie worked tirelessly to get them out safely--juggling gear, managing the anxious duck family, and working with officers and residents in real time. Eventually, all ducklings were reunited with their mom and siblings. A rare, full reunion.
A special shoutout goes to Pat and MPD, who didn't just assist with traffic or wrangling the ducklings--they also managed to lift the heavy sewer grate, something most would consider a two-person job for a team of professionals. Must be the "bionic strength" that comes with caring deeply about ducklings.
As someone who's been wearing the badge for over 23 years, I've seen a lot of things. But that event reminds me--and all of us--what's possible when people come together. Residents, officers, and animal control united by compassion and quick thinking to make something truly good happen.
Thanks again to Elizabeth, Pat, ACO Bigley, Midtown Officers, and everyone who helped bring a little more kindness into the world this Sunday.
Stay safe--and look out for the ducks.
-Capt. Shannon Blackamore
