K9 Officer Spike was shot and killed during a standoff between a man and the Burbank Police on Saturday, November 22. A motorist had refused to pull over for police officers at Buena Vista Street near the 5 Freeway.
According to police reports, a chase ensued and then a standoff; a passenger from the suspect’s vehicle ran from the car and fled on foot. Multiple efforts were reported to have been made to de-escalate the situation.
As Spike approached the suspect, the man began shooting at Spike; ultimately killing the dog. Even though Spike had been wearing his bullet proof vest, he did not survive. Initially, officers at the scene shot the suspect with nonlethal rounds, however the suspect is alleged to have shot back with gunfire. An officer fired back at that point – killing the suspect.
Officers remained with the vehicle’s driver during the standoff.
K9 Spike was rushed to an emergency veterinarian hospital where he was pronounced dead.
with profound sadness, we share the news of the passing of our beloved k9 Spike, who courageously gave his life in the line of duty after being struck by gunfire from an armed suspect.
Spike’s handler Ofcr Salas, his family and the Burbank PD are devastated. Spike had been a valued member of the police department for the last 21 months, and had appeared at many community events.
Spike, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, had recently earned certification for narcotics work. He was one of two dogs in the department’s canine unit, both deployed to the scene.
Rest in peace brave dog.
Identities of the suspects have not been made available yet.
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