N.M. Police K-9 Killed in SWAT Shootout with Gunman at Airport Hotel
Source Officer.com News
What to know
- Rebel, an Albuquerque police K-9, was killed during a SWAT operation while trying to capture an armed suspect at a hotel near the airport.
- The suspect opened fire after jumping from a window and struggling with Rebel, and both were fatally shot.
- Rebel served the department for seven years and was honored as a brave and dedicated member of the force.
A New Mexico police K-9 was killed while trying to help arrest an armed suspect during a SWAT operation at an airport hotel Thursday.
Rebel was part of a response to help arrest a suspect who had escaped police during a May 27 SWAT call, KOAT-TV reports. SWAT units arrived at the Comfort Suites near the Albuquerque Sunport, and negotiators tried to get the suspect to surrender.
When the man jumped from a hotel window, Rebel was deployed to subdue him. While struggling with Rebel, the suspect drew a gun and began shooting, with officers returning fire.
Rebel and the suspect were both struck by gunfire in the exchange. Both died from their injuries.
Rebel had served with the department for seven years, and he "our city with honor and bravery," the agency said in a social media post.
"He was not only a partner to his handler but a valued member of our police family," the department stated. "His dedication and service will never be forgotten."
