Firefighters Rescue Buck Trapped in Livonia Pool

A deer that fell through a covered backyard swimming pool in Livonia was freed by firefighters and ran off unharmed.

Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Wildlife

Backyard swimming pool with its dark mesh cover pulled back, a metal ladder across the edge, and a deer at the shallow end of the water, with bare lawn and trees behind. — Livonia firefighters freed a buck that had fallen through a covered backyard pool, tossing a ladder in so the deer could climb out and run off unharmed. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Livonia firefighters rescued a buck that fell through a pool cover at a home and became trapped in the shallow end of the pool. The deer climbed out with a ladder thrown in by firefighters and ran off into the neighborhood with no apparent injuries.

Why it matters

The incident highlights how neglected or unused pools can pose hazards to wildlife and residents alike when covers are damaged or unsecured. It also serves as a reminder for Livonia homeowners to inspect pool covers regularly.

The rescue involved a 10-foot-deep pool that had been drained about 1.5 years earlier and was awaiting demolition but still covered. Firefighters' records do not indicate whether the deer sustained any injuries, as it was reported to have run off unharmed.

The players

Livonia Fire Department

The municipal fire department serving the city of Livonia, Michigan, which responded to the call and performed the rescue.

Capt. Eskin

A Livonia Fire Department captain with 31 years in the fire service who was involved in the response to the trapped deer.

The details

The homeowner pulled back the pool cover and discovered the buck in the shallow end, then called Livonia police and firefighters. The steep slope of the pool made it difficult for the deer to climb out, so firefighters threw a ladder into the pool to help it escape.

About 1.5 years before the incident: the pool was drained and scheduled for demolition.
Tuesday morning: the deer fell through the pool cover and became trapped.

Seasonal Patterns

Deer movement through suburban neighborhoods often increases in the fall as the animals search for food and mates, which can bring them into contact with backyard hazards such as pools. The Livonia case reflects this seasonal pattern of wildlife entering residential property.

Homeowners with pools should inspect their covers for tears or sagging and secure them properly to prevent animals from falling through. Owners of unused or pending-demolition pools should consider draining, fencing, or otherwise blocking access to reduce the risk of wildlife becoming trapped.