Beloved Anaheim Police K-9 Officer Bruno Dies At 9
ANAHEIM (CBSLA.com) — A beloved Anaheim police K-9 officer who was shot while on duty two years ago has passed away.
According to the Anaheim Police Department, Bruno, a 9-year-old German Shepherd, succumbed to organ failure just before 6 a.m. Wednesday. He was in the presence of his current and past handlers.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of K-9 Bruno," police announced on Facebook. "Bruno was a warrior to the end and we will never forget our hero!"
FULL COVERAGE: Police K-9 Officer Injured In Anaheim
Bruno was admitted to Yorba Regional Veterinarian Animal Hospital late Saturday afternoon after experiencing medical complications related to injuries he sustained in a line of duty injury, police explained.
He underwent emergency surgery, but was unable to recover.
"We cannot thank all the veterinarians, veterinarian technicians, and other professional staff at Yorba Regional Veterinarian Hospital enough for taking such great care of Bruno all of these years," police continued. "You truly are the best at what you do."
Bruno was critically injured in March 2014 while leading Handling Officer RJ Young to a suspect who had shot at two parole officers in Anaheim.
He underwent several surgeries and was released from veterinarian's care two months later.
Bruno was honored with a formal retirement ceremony at the Anaheim City Council meeting, where he was met with a standing ovation.