Heroic Return of Police Dog After Shooting Incident

A heroic police dog, injured while protecting an officer, has made a heartfelt return to a Florida sheriff’s office. The K-9, who tragically lost a leg, was greeted warmly by members of the community.

In a separate case, Angel Bowers, 27, was arrested in March 2024 for allegedly engaging in illegal sexual activity with a 16-year-old girl inside a children’s “princess tent.” His court appearance was scheduled for August 3, but he failed to show up, leading to a felony warrant being issued.

On August 6, Bowers was located by three deputies and K-9 Ace, who tracked him down to a tent in a wooded area. Bowers reportedly opened fire on the officers, injuring Ace in the left shoulder. This serious injury affected Ace’s front leg and a nearby artery.

Deputies returned fire, and Bowers was later found dead with the gun he had stolen. Ace, the 7-year-old German shepherd, was taken to Parkway Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Lakeland by his partner and trainer, Deputy Natalie Oestreich. After stabilizing his condition, Ace was airlifted to Veterinary Medical Center at Lakewood Ranch.

During the lengthy surgery, veterinarians amputated Ace’s injured leg. In a touching moment captured on video, deputies celebrated Ace’s recovery as he walked out of the medical facility wearing a “Ride or Die” shirt.

Upon returning to the sheriff’s office just days after the traumatic event, Ace received a hero’s welcome. Sheriff Grady Judd expressed his pride in Ace and Oestreich, noting, “They stood between good and evil and saved the lives of three deputies.” Judd also stated, “Prayers are answered because Ace is alive and my deputy is not injured.” However, due to the trauma Ace experienced, he has been retired from his duties.

The sheriff’s office remarked on Ace’s legacy, saying, “His days of chasing bad guys may be over, but Ace will always be one of our heroes!”

In a supportive gesture, the Wiltse Family Trust announced it would cover Ace’s ongoing care and help acquire a new police dog to replace him. Their foundation, aimed at supporting local heroes, reassured Ace’s handlers that they would not have to worry about his care expenses.

Mary Anne Wiltse expressed gratitude, stating, “If we can make it easier for them with the tools to do that, that’s satisfying.” She described the emotional rollercoaster of feelings experienced throughout the ordeal, from sadness to relief that Ace would recover and had helped saved officers’ lives.