(Hillsborough County Sheriff`s K-9 Brooks)
Lithia, FL – According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, an HCSO K-9 named Brooks was fatally shot Monday night after escaping his handler’s yard and attacking a neighbor’s alpaca. Around 9:30 p.m., Master Deputy Charles Perdomo let Brooks out for a bathroom break in his fenced Lithia backyard, but the dog jumped the fence and ran into nearby woods. A neighbor, unaware that Brooks was a sheriff’s K-9, discovered the dog attacking his alpaca, fired a warning shot, and then shot Brooks when the assault persisted.
The alpaca sustained a minor leg injury and is receiving treatment, officials said. Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “We are heartbroken over the loss of K9 Brooks, a dedicated and courageous member of our HCSO family. The unbreakable bond between a K9 and their partner is like no other, making this loss even more heartbreaking.” The sheriff’s office is investigating the incident, and thoughts remain with Deputy Perdomo and all affected by the tragic event.
Nothing further at this time.
