The RCMP is paying tribute to fallen police dog, Gator.
Gator was killed yesterday during a police incident at a Tim Hortons in Campbell River. The suspect in the incident was also killed, prompting an investigation by the IIO BC.
Since news of Gator's passing, a makeshift memorial has been started by members of the community outside the Campbell River RCMP Detachment.
"Our collective hearts are truly broken right now," said Cst Maury Tyre. "We know that the community feels this loss as well and we would like to thank them for the outpouring of support and well wishes."
Gator was born May 1, 2014 and spent his entire service with partner and handler since June 10, 2016 in Campbell River.
“Our dogs are valuable police resources that provide operational assistance on a daily basis, companionship for employees and act as community ambassadors for our detachments,” said a statement from Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, the Commanding Officer of BC RCMP. “PSD Gator was no exception.”
McDonald said that Gator was involved in a variety of files, including finding a distraught man in a snowfall and helping with the arrest of a knife wielding man who robbed a store.
He was even named Campbell River RCMP’s Mountie of the Month.
Inspector Jeff Preston, Officer in Charge of the Campbell River RCMP, said that the loss of Gator has affected the whole detachment.
“The loss of Campbell River’s Police Dog Service Gator today, is something I never thought I would have to endure. The importance of the role he played in keeping our community safe will not be forgotten,” Preston said.
The RCMP said that full supports are in place to help Gator’s handler and colleagues deal with the difficult loss.
