Rocky the U.S. Marshals K-9 released from hospital after being shot in line of duty

A U.S. Marshals tactical K-9, who was shot multiple times by a suspect wanted in the shooting death of Brazoria County Sheriff's Deputy Jesus Vargas, has been released from the hospital.

Rocky's Heroic Actions

The backstory:

The K-9, named Rocky, alerted officers to a dumpster where the suspect was hiding after the shooting of Deputy Vargas.

The suspect fired at Rocky, hitting him in the neck and nose. Law enforcement officers returned fire, striking the suspect multiple times, resulting in his death at the scene.

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Medical Response and Recovery

Following the incident, several law enforcement officers rushed Rocky to a waiting Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter, which transported him to Westbury Animal Hospital. There, he underwent surgery to treat his injuries.

Rocky's handler remained by his side throughout the night, and several officers visited the hospital to check on the K-9, whom many credits with saving their lives.

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Rocky, an 18-month-old Belgian Malinois who has been on the job for six months, is now up and walking, eating, and drinking. He has returned to his handler and is expected to make a full recovery, with plans to return to duty in the near future.

Statements from Officials

What they're saying:

"We are all extremely grateful to the staff at Westbury for the fact that Rocky is still with us," said T. Michael O’Connor, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Texas. "While Wednesday was a tragedy for all of us in law enforcement with the loss of Deputy Vargas, it likely could have gone worse had Rocky not been there. He is a hero. We all wish him a speedy recovery."

The U.S. Marshals Service Canine (K9) Operations program provides dedicated protective, investigative, and enforcement K9 support to U.S. Marshals Service missions.

The Source: This information was provided by the U.S. Marshall Service.

Crime and Public Safety