OCALA, Fla. — A beloved police dog has passed away after being shot while on duty.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods said K-9 Leo charged at a suspect, who was threatening deputies with a gun near Ocala on Saturday morning.
The suspect allegedly shot Leo, before deputies returned fire and killed the man.
“Over the last few days, Leo maintained that fighting spirit,” Woods said. “However, Leo’s injuries were too severe to overcome this morning, and his passing will be felt by all of us here in my office and in our community.”
Woods went on to say, “I would ask that in the coming days, weeks, and months, that you keep our K-9 team in your thoughts and prayers. They are going to need it.”
Leo was a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois.
The Sheriff’s department purchased Leo with donations made by Marion County citizens.
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