Florida Sheriff’s K-9 Dies Days After Being Wounded in Shootout

K-9 Leo was wearing a bullet-resistant vest when shot once by a suspect during a call in Silver Springs. The bullet struck the K-9 in an area not covered by his armor.

February 21, 2024

Marion County, Florida, Sheriff's K-9 Leo with his handler Corporal Justin Tortora. Leo was mortally wounded in a shooting Saturday.Marion County SO/Facebook

A Marion County, Florida, Sheriff’s K-9 who fought for his life after being shot by a suspect in the line of duty Saturday has died.

K-9 Leo was wearing a bullet-resistant vest when shot once by a suspect during a call in Silver Springs. The bullet struck the K-9 in an area not covered by his armor.

Deputies returned fire, killing the man identified as Jeremy Bradsher, 44. K-9 Leo was rushed to University of Florida Veterinary Hospital in Gainesville, Fox 35 reports.

After four days of fighting for his life, Leo, a Belgian Malinois and a three-year veteran of the MCSO, died on Tuesday morning.

K-9 Leo’s courageous actions potentially saved his handler, Corporal Justin Tortora’s life, as well as other deputies' lives that day, said Marion County SO Sheriff Billy Woods.

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