K-9 deputy dies after being shot by suspect during standoff

(Gray News) – Officials in Maine are mourning the loss of a K-9 officer who was killed in the line of duty Monday night.

The Maine State Police said K-9 officer Preacher, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, was killed in the line of duty during a tactical team operation in Portage.

Police said the tactical team was deployed in response to an armed standoff involving a suspect who shot a deputy earlier Monday.

The Maine State Police said a K9 officer named Preacher was killed in the line of duty.(Maine State Police)

The standoff reportedly lasted several hours before the suspect tried to run from the home around 8 p.m.

Preacher was sent to apprehend the suspect when police said he was shot in the abdomen.

Shortly after, Preacher’s handler Sgt. Jonathan Russell along with Specialist Andrew Hardy returned fire and the suspect was reportedly killed on the scene.

Preacher was rushed to a hospital where he was stabilized.

Despite efforts from veterinary staff, Preacher died from his injuries early Tuesday morning. He was surrounded by Russell as well as several other members of the tactical team when he died.

“K-9 Preacher was more than just a working dog—he was a dedicated partner, a protector, and a hero,” Colonel Ross with the Maine State Police said.. “Most people will never understand the sacrifices made by our K-9 teams, but last night, Preacher made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others from harm.”

The Maine State Police said it sends its heartfelt condolences to Russell and the rest of the K9 unit.

“The loss of Preacher is a profound reminder of the courage and dedication of our law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners,” officials said.