The Burbank, California police department is grieving the loss of a K-9 who was shot and killed while pursuing a suspect on Saturday night.
The incident took place in the 2400 block of Buena Vista Avenue near Highway 5 when a man failed to stop for a police vehicle, leading to a chase, as reported by local news.
The passenger from the suspect’s vehicle took off, with Burbank Police K-9 Spike in pursuit. Unfortunately, the suspect opened fire, fatally wounding Spike.
“The police dog was rushed to a local emergency veterinarian, but he was pronounced dead due to his injuries,” the department shared in a statement.
Meanwhile, officers located a suspect hiding near the highway, armed with a handgun.
Due to the situation’s complexity, the case escalated to a joint investigation involving both the Burbank and Glendale Police Departments. This effort included additional K-9 units, crisis negotiators, and the Burbank SWAT team.
Efforts were made to negotiate with the suspects and urge them to surrender peacefully, with officers establishing a perimeter and utilizing less-lethal options.
However, the suspect fired at officers and damaged a police vehicle, prompting police to return fire, resulting in the suspect’s death. His identity has not been disclosed.
Burbank police expressed their sadness on social media, honoring Spike, who “bravely gave his life in the line of duty after being shot by an armed suspect.”
The department remarked on him being a dedicated and intelligent partner, and asked the community to keep his handler, Mr. Ofuku Salas, and the department in their thoughts during this difficult time.
K-9 Spike, a Belgian Malinois, had been serving in the department for two years and was recently certified as a drug detection dog, according to NBC Los Angeles.
“This is a huge loss for us. Losing him feels just like losing a police officer,” said Lt. Derek Green, emphasizing Spike’s bravery in pursuing the suspect.
The department shared an emotional “K-9s Pledge” that Spike embodied through his service:
“I will give my life for you, and all I get in return is love. I will protect every police officer with my life and be willing to take the bullet in their place. I am sent in to find lost children and fugitives on the run… All I ask is love and care.”
There’s no doubt K-9 Spike lived up to that promise. He sacrificed everything for his law enforcement family. May he rest peacefully and enjoy endless treats. He will always be remembered.
Since the incident, community members have created a monument to K-9 Spike.
“It’s heartbreaking for the community, and I felt it was important to pay my respects,” a local woman shared with the news.
K-9 Spike was protected by a bulletproof vest during the incident. After the attack, he returned to his handler, who is mourning the loss of his loyal companion.
Green mentioned that, had the suspect survived, he would face charges equivalent to those for killing a human officer.
