Beloved Police Dog Dies After Forgetful Cop Made A Terrible Mistake

Local community members in Savannah, Missouri, are outraged after a police K9 tragically died from being left in a hot car overnight by deputies. Chief David Vincent of the Savannah Police Department confirmed that the German shepherd, Horus, died on Thursday due to health complications from being trapped in the vehicle following an overnight shift. The incident is currently under investigation, and while Horus’ death is being considered an accident, the community is demanding accountability.

Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney Monica J. Morrey has requested a special investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. In a statement released Sunday, she expressed the office’s sorrow over Horus’ passing and gratitude for his service to the community.

Savannah, like many towns, has been experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees and heat index values soaring to 109 degrees, according to The Weather Channel. The sweltering conditions made the situation even more dire for the police dog left in the car.

Horus had been a part of the police department since February 2021 and was one of their four K9 units. Despite the department’s initial silence on social media regarding Horus’ death, the community has voiced its anger on their most recent posts. Users criticized the department for not addressing the tragedy and demanded justice for the officer responsible.

Comments flooded in, expressing outrage and calling for charges against the responsible officer. One user wrote, “IT’S NOT AN ACCIDENT WHEN THE PUBLIC DOES IT AND IT’S NOT AN ACCIDENT NOW. We demand charges for the person who did this.” Another commented, “Can I leave your police officer in your car for 6 hrs, without air conditioning? Oh, that’s a crime? Weird.”

Chief Vincent issued a statement to local Fox affiliate WDAF, indicating that no further information would be released until the investigation is completed. He asked for thoughts and prayers as the department deals with the loss of Horus.

The community’s frustration was palpable, with many questioning how such an oversight could occur. A user claiming to be a former police officer stated, “You don’t leave your partner in a patrol vehicle without constantly checking on him. If nothing happens to the police officer, it’s because he was connected to someone.”

Adding to the community’s outrage, the police department posted a photo on Facebook of another missing dog roaming the town on the same day they announced Horus’ death, which many found insensitive.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment and safety of K9 officers. As the investigation continues, the community remains vigilant, seeking transparency and justice for Horus. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with handling K9 units and the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being.