K-9 Officer's Funeral To Be Held At Soldiers & Sailors Hall
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Funeral arrangements are now in place for Pittsburgh Police K-9 officer Rocco, the German Shepherd killed in the line of duty earlier this week while chasing a suspect.
The funeral has been scheduled for Friday, Feb. 7 at 11 a.m. at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in Oakland.
The service was originally planned to be closed to the general public. However, after receiving a huge number of calls, the service will be open to the public.
Doors will open at 10 a.m., but officials remind the public that first priority will be given to law enforcement officers and their families, as well as public safety personnel and public officials.
Ahead of the service, there will be a Canine Officer motor procession that will begin at 10 a.m. at the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Canine Training Academy on Washington Boulevard.
The Pittsburgh Police Bureau has released this statement:
"The heartfelt expressions of condolence and public support have been overwhelming and very much appreciated. As we prepare to lay our fallen canine officer to rest with full honors, we ask for your continued prayers for the family and Bureau of Police."
K-9 officer Rocco was stabbed on Jan. 28 in Lawrenceville while pursuing a convicted sex offender wanted by police in connection with a violent home invasion.
Rocco's handler and another officer were also injured.
The police dog was taken to the Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty Emergency Center where he was being treated, but took a turn for the worst Thursday evening and died from his injuries.
The suspect was taken into custody and is now facing a long list of charges.
To honor Rocco, Mayor Bill Peduto has ordered flags to fly at half-staff.
RELATED LINKS:
Bail Set At $1 Million For Suspect Accused Of Killing K-9 Officer (1/31/14)
More Reports on K-9 Officer Rocco
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter