K9 shot in the head while chasing suspect has emotional reunion with his partner
Police K9s and their human handlers develop bonds just like any other police partnership. K9s and their handlers rely on each other in tense and sometimes life-threatening situations.
One K9’s reunion with his handler after he was shot in the head by a suspect has touched the hearts of many online.
K9 Bruno is shot at point-blank range
A seven-year-old German shepherd, K9 Bruno had been working with the Anaheim Police Department in California when he was shot point-blank in the face as he helped in the pursuit of a suspect. The injury left many, including his handler, Officer R.J. Young, fearing for his life.
“Bruno was shot point-blank; it was a horrific thing to have to watch,” Young told ABC News. “My entire world came tumbling down in the matter of a second.”
The suspect was later shot and killed by the police.
Vets rushed to save Bruno’s life
Bruno was rushed to an area animal hospital to have life-saving surgery to remove bullet fragments from his lungs and to fix his shattered jaw. In addition to the medical procedures, Bruno also had to get a blood transfusion using blood supplied by his fellow K9s, Ares and Guenther.
“Bruno is credited with saving the lives of a couple of officers on that shooting incident, where he took the bullets,” Anaheim police spokesman Daron Wyatt said. “It’s a tragedy that it had to happen.”
A heartwarming reunion with Young
Fortunately, Bruno was able to survive his ordeal and had a heartwarming and emotional reunion with his partner. After he was released from the hospital, Officer Young purchased Bruno from the city and adopted him, taking him home to live with him and his family.
“He’s like a son to me. Bruno will be with me for the rest of my life,” Officer Young stated.
Complications from his shooting
Unfortunately, Bruno passed away due to complications from this shooting two years after it occurred. The police department where Bruno worked posted on its Facebook page after the former K9 officer’s untimely death.
“Bruno was a warrior to the end, and we will never forget OUR HERO,” the post read. “Rest well 26K2; we know you will be vigilantly watching over RJ and the rest of us from Heaven.”
A hole in his heart
As for Officer Young, he gained a new K9 partner following Bruno’s retirement from the department, which has helped greatly with the loss of his beloved partner.
Bruno’s death was attributed to complications with his health that began occurring after his shooting. Young and his family, who were away on vacation at the time of Bruno’s death, were devastated.
“There is a hole in my heart that can never be filled,” Officer Young told Behind the Badge.
You can watch the video below for Young and Bruno’s emotional reunion following the life-altering shooting.
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H/T: I Love My Dog So Much, Officer.com, Los Angeles Times, Behind the Badge