The daring rescue unfolded in the town of Cambridge on Dec. 17, according to officials.
The girl and her little sister plunged into the frigid waters while playing on thin ice on a pond located on private property, police said.
An 80-year-old homeowner pulled the younger girl to safety but could not rescue the 8-year old and called 911, according to a press release issued Friday.
Trooper Michelle Archer arrived less than five minutes after the desperate call, authorities said. Archer pulled a rope and floatation device from her cruiser and swam to the struggling child — then brought her to shore, according to police and bodycam footage.
“She’s making noise, can you grab her .. just bring her closer,” Archer is heard telling Trooper Keith Cote through heavy breathing as she brings the whimpering girl to the snowy shore.
Cote carried the girl to a waiting ambulance, which took her to a hospital where she made a full recovery from injuries that were initially believed to be potentially deadly, police said.
Archer was able to change into warm clothes and did not need medical treatment, according to the release.
