It was a quiet day on the Port Jefferson Harbor shoreline when Storm, a dog owned by Buttafuoco & Associates managing partner Mark Freeley, performed a heroic rescue that has since captured the hearts of millions. It happened on an ordinary day, when Mark took Storm and his other dog, Sarah, to the beach for some much-needed relaxation. The family had been fostering two energetic puppies, and Freeley knew Storm and Sarah deserved a peaceful break from the chaos. Little did he know that their serene walk was about to unexpectedly turn into a daring aquatic rescue.
Storm Leaps into Action
As they strolled toward the shoreline, Mark noticed that Storm bolted ahead, charging into the water. “I saw a small animal’s head bobbing in the water and when I got closer,” Mark recalls, “I realized it was a fawn.” Storm reached the baby deer about 100 yards out. Then he grabbed the fawn gently by the neck and started swimming to shore.
Once back on dry land, the fawn lay motionless on the rocky beach. Storm, not one to give up on a friend in need, stood watch over the deer, nudging it gently with his nose. It was a display of instinctive kindness that left Mark, and everyone who saw the video, in awe.
What made Storm’s actions even more remarkable was his calm and gentle demeanor, which Mark attributes to the dog’s extensive training and socialization with residents at an assisted living facility; even the family’s pet rabbit often hops onto Storm’s back for a ride.
For our New York personal injury attorneys, Storm’s instinct to act serves as a paragon to the values behind Buttafuoco & Associates. When someone is hurt, they need someone in their corner who won’t give up, just like Storm didn’t give up on that fawn.
More About Mark Freeley
Mark Freeley is a personal injury lawyer serving New York with over 20 years of legal experience. As the managing partner at Buttafuoco & Associates, Mark oversees the firm’s day-to-day operations and handles many of its most serious personal injury cases, including wrongful deaths, catastrophic car and trucking accidents, and construction accident litigation. Known for his meticulous case preparation, Mark approaches each case as if it will go to trial, resulting in strong six and seven figure settlements for his clients.
Beyond his legal work, Mark is a dedicated advocate for animal welfare. He and his daughter volunteer at Last Chance Animal Rescue nearly every weekend, helping pets find loving homes. Mark also serves as the organization’s pro bono legal counsel.
A Personal Injury Firm in Storm’s Image
The story of Storm’s heroic rescue serves as a reminder of the compassion and determination that defines not only great animals but also great advocates. When fighting for justice in personal injury cases, Mark and his team at Buttafuoco & Associates strive to embody the same dedication.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, call 1-800-NOW-HURT, and our team of New York personal injury lawyers will work tirelessly to bring you ashore.
