Gunner

Incident

K9 Gunner was shot and killed in case of friendly-fire while pursuing a suspect.

K9 Gunner's handler had been involved in a vehicle pursuit which ended at the suspect's home on Winslow Court in Woodbridge. K9 Gunner was released as his handler chased the man into the house, but the door closed behind the handler and K9 Gunner was not able to get inside.

Another responding unit attempted to gain entry but K9 Gunner became aggressive and wouldn't let the officer into the home. Not knowing that K9 Gunner was a police canine, and fearing he would be bitten, the officer shot him. After hearing the gunshot, his handler immediately came outside and transported K9 Gunner to emergency animal hospital.

K9 Gunner had previously been selected as the best overall dog of the year by the United States Police Canine Association.