Bane, 3-year-old Phoenix police dog, killed in line of duty
Apr 17, 2018, 5:56 PM | Updated: Apr 18, 2018, 8:33 pm
(Phoenix Police Department)
(Phoenix Police Department)
PHOENIX — A three-year-old Belgian Malinois named Bane was killed after running into a home to find a suspect on Tuesday, according to Phoenix police.
He had been with the department for almost two years.
Mayor Greg Stanton issued a statement on Tuesday.
“Our hearts are broken over the loss of Bane, who died protecting his fellow officers and our city,” he said. “Police K9s are fearless, loyal companions who are essential to our department, and this tragic loss is felt throughout our community. Our prayers are with Bane’s handler and family.”
Bane was looking for a suspect of a high-speed chase that had raced through Phoenix over the afternoon. A white SUV caused a car accident and drove on light rail tracks at one point before crashing into a home near 27th Avenue and Bethany Home Road.
Two people escaped from the vehicle after the crash. A female suspect was taken into custody.
A male suspect hid in the attic of a home. It was not clear whether he shot at officers.
Bane was sent into the home to retrieve the suspect. As of 4 p.m., the cause of his death was still being determined.
“They are our protectors, they are our partners and it’s definitely with heart that we lost Bane,” Williams said.
The male suspect was caught and transferred to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. He had a history of running from police and an outstanding warrant.
The pair stole at least two cars Tuesday, and the male pointed a gun at one of the carjacking victims.
