“Too many K9s are losing their lives and it’s up to us to keep their memory alive”
Some give all. We’re saddened to share that K9 Duke of the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office was tragically killed in the line of duty on February 19th.
The sheriff’s office reported that just after noon on the 19th, K9 Duke was stabbed multiple times while trying to apprehend a burglary suspect in Banta, located in Central California.
Duke was killed when deputies were called to investigate a burglary at the local train yard. The event unfolded, as reported by KCRA:
“[Tracy police] had responded to a call there and saw two suspects running. So, we responded with our K9 because they did not have one on duty at the time,” Sheriff Withrow said.
When the sheriff’s deputies, K9 Duke, and his handler Deputy Michael Stewart, arrived at the train yard, one of the suspects got into the engine room of one of the trains and barricaded himself. Deputies were able to pop open a door just enough for Duke to enter. But tragically, that is when the suspect stabbed Duke several times.
Sheriff Withrow said, “As the K9 engaged the suspect, the suspect had a weapon on him and wounded our dog and the dog began howling in pain.” Unfortunately, when deputies reached Duke, it was clear Duke was badly wounded. Duke was taken to the Central Valley Veterinarian Hospital in Manteca, where he died of his injuries.
Deputies were able to apprehend the suspect, who is now in custody. The sheriff’s office said that they are investigating Duke’s death and Tracy Police Department is investigating the circumstances of the burglary.
Far too many police K9s have been killed in the line of duty. They deserve honor and respect for their service. Please share this article in memory of K9 Duke.