K9 Helo

Helo

K9 Helo was shot and killed while attempting an apprehension following a vehicle pursuit in Palmer, Alaska.

Helo's handler had responded to back up a Palmer Police Department officer who was involved in a vehicle pursuit. The vehicle eventually turned down a long driveway near the interchange of Glenn Highway and Parks Highway before crashing into a tree at low speed. The driver of the vehicle then fled on foot into a wooded area while carrying a handgun.

The man then opened fire on pursuing officers as Helo was released to attempt an apprehension. The man shot Helo several times before being wounded by return gunfire from the officers. He was taken into custody and charged with multiple counts, including attempted murder and killing a police dog. He was sentenced to 40 years in state prison and 10 years in federal prison.