Fla. Sheriff's Office K-9 Dies after Being Shot Protecting Deputies

A Florida sheriff's office K-9 died Tuesday, days after the dog was shot protecting deputies.

Leo, a K-9 with the Marion County Sheriff's Office, was part of the response to a call Saturday in Silver Springs concerning a man strangling someone, WESH-TV reports. When deputies reached the scene, the suspect—identified as Jeremy Bradsher—opened fire, and Leo was struck in an area that wasn't protected by his ballistic vest.

"During the confrontation, this evil person shot K-9 Leo as Leo was responding to protect his handler and the other deputies," the sheriff's office stated in an online statement. "Leo did exactly what he was trained to do.... and that is to fearlessly defend and protect those deputies. To charge directly at danger."

Bradsher was shot when deputies returned, and he was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

"Over the last few days, Leo maintained that fighting spirit," stated the agency. "However, Leo’s injuries were too severe to overcome this morning, and his passing will be felt by all of us here in my office and in our community."

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident. Body camera footage of the shooting is expected to be released by the sheriff's office.

"Most of you do not know the unique bond that develops between the law enforcement K9 and their handler," stated the sheriff's office. "That bond is what binds them to some extraordinary levels of loyalty, love, and unwavering determination. 

"I would ask that in the coming days, weeks, and months, that you keep our K-9 team in your thoughts and prayers. They are going to need it."