K-9 SHOOTING SUSPECT IS DECEASED
After an hours-long standoff in the Kathleen area, the suspect who shot Polk County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Ace has been pronounced deceased at the scene after SWAT made entry into the wooded area.
The incident began when deputies attempted to serve an arrest warrant. As law enforcement made contact, the suspect opened fire, striking K-9 and triggering a large-scale response involving deputies, SWAT, K-9 units, EMS, and multiple assisting agencies.
K-9 Ace remains under emergency veterinary care, and we are all hoping for a positive update on his condition.
Thank you to everyone who stayed with us throughout this rapidly developing incident and for your patience while we waited for verified information. We will continue to provide official updates as they become available.
(Thank you, Fox 35, for the video)
Please keep K-9 Ace, his handler, and all of the first responders involved in your thoughts tonight.