Meet Splash the Otter Solving Cold Cases Underwater

Meet Splash the Otter Solving Cold Cases Underwater

O
Otter
Jul 6, 2026

Splash, an Asian small-clawed otter, works alongside veteran search and rescue expert Michael Hadsell to locate submerged evidence and human remains in deep water. Using his highly sensitive whiskers and natural instincts, Splash can navigate through zero-visibility conditions and help investigators recover critical evidence.

According to Hadsell, Splash has already assisted in nine recoveries, including evidence and human remains, making him a valuable tool in ongoing investigations.

Could otters one day become a standard part of search and rescue operations? This remarkable story explores how one animal is helping bring answers to families and investigators alike.