Cape Cod couple married 50 years tragically die after falling through ice while walking their dog on frozen Bee’s River in Massachusetts

A quiet Saturday morning in Massachusetts turned into a devastating tragedy when a longtime couple, Gerard “Jerry” Boucher, 72, and Kathleen “Kit” Boucher, 71, were killed after falling through the ice on Bee’s River in Cape Cod.

The couple, married for 50 years, had been taking their dog, Casey, for a walk across the frozen river when the ice gave way.

The incident shook not only their family but the entire community, highlighting the dangers of walking on frozen waterways even during seemingly calm winter days.

Rescue Efforts Turned Dangerous

According to authorities, the Eastham Police and Fire Departments rushed to the scene shortly after 9 a.m. following reports of a woman screaming on the ice.

In a dramatic turn, one police officer attempted to reach Kit but fell through the ice himself.

A second officer also tried to reach her, but the ice gave way again.

Thankfully, both officers managed to return to shore safely.

Special dive and rescue teams were brought in, and Kit was eventually pulled from the river around 11 a.m.

Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators later determined that her husband, Jerry, had likely fallen through the ice before emergency responders arrived.

Family Remembers a Lifetime Together

The Bouchers’ daughter, Katy, shared memories of her parents with the Boston Globe.

She recalled how Kit and Jerry met at a summer school biology class when they were just 15 years old, sparking a love story that lasted more than five decades.

They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year and were together for 56 years in total.

“They were wonderful partners, but really good friends.

Their relationship was truly a model — affection, respect, fun, shared values,” Katy said.

Originally from West Hartford, Connecticut, the couple retired to Cape Cod, where they immersed themselves in community life.

Kit worked as a kindergarten teacher and remained in touch with many of her former students, while Jerry had a long career as an auto mechanic, HVAC technician, and gas fitter, including 35 years with Connecticut Natural Gas.

Community Mourns the Loss

Friends and neighbors expressed shock and sadness at the news.

Dawn Varnum and Peter Miller told NBC 10 Boston that the Bouchers were known for their kindness, constant smiles, and infectious sense of humor.

State Representative Steve Xiarhos added that the couple were active members of the Cape Cod Athletic Club and beloved in the running community.

“This is such a tragedy in so many ways. A loving couple. A family shattered.

A running community grieving. An entire town shaken,” Xiarhos wrote on social media.

Dog Survives But Is Shaken

Their dog, Casey, was rescued after the accident but was reportedly very shaken by the experience.

The family said that despite the heartbreak, they are leaning on one another for support.

Ice Conditions Remain Dangerous

The Eastham Police Department cautioned residents that the rising tide had made continued water searches ineffective.

Officers said they would continue to monitor ice conditions in the area and that further searches may resume when it is safe.

Authorities also thanked first responders for their courageous attempts to save the couple.

What’s Next?

Officials are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution near frozen waterways.

The community is coming together to support the Boucher family and honor the memory of a couple who were not only partners in life but pillars of their local community.

Plans for memorials and tributes are expected as friends and neighbors seek to celebrate their lives and legacy.

Summary

Gerard “Jerry” and Kathleen “Kit” Boucher, a married couple of 50 years, tragically died after falling through the ice on Cape Cod’s Bee’s River while walking their dog.

Rescue efforts were complicated by unstable ice, and both died despite emergency response.

Known for their warmth, kindness, and community involvement, the couple leaves behind a grieving family, friends, and a shaken town.

Authorities continue to warn residents about the dangers of winter ice and are monitoring conditions for any potential recovery efforts.